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screw is a type of fastener characterized by a helical ridge, known as a thread, wrapped around a cylindrical or conical shaft. It's designed to join objects together by engaging its thread with a corresponding thread in a matching hole or nut. Screws are commonly used in construction, woodworking, and machinery. 

Here's a more detailed description:

Key Features:

Thread: The raised, helical ridge that spirals around the screw's shank. 

Shank: The cylindrical body of the screw, extending from beneath the head to the tip. 

Head: The top part of the screw, designed for applying torque to turn it. 

Point: The tapered or blunt end of the screw, which may help with initial thread engagement or penetration. 

How it Works:

Screws function as simple machines, using the principle of an inclined plane wrapped around a cylinder. When turned, the thread engages with a corresponding thread in the receiving material (either a pre-tapped hole or a nut), drawing the screw and the connected parts together. 

Types of Screws:

Screws come in various types, each suited for specific applications, materials, and joining methods. Common types include: 

Wood Screws: Designed for use in wood, with coarse threads and a pointed tip.

Machine Screws: Used in metal or plastic, with finer threads and various head styles.

Sheet Metal Screws: Feature sharp threads for use in thin metal sheets.

Self-Tapping Screws: Create their own threads as they are driven into the material.

Lag Screws: Large screws with a square or hex head, used for heavy-duty applications.

Mechanical Advantage:

The mechanical advantage of a screw is the ratio of output force to input force. It depends on the pitch (distance between threads). A narrower pitch requires less force to turn but may require more rotations to achieve the same linear distance. 

In summary, screws are versatile fasteners that utilize a helical thread to join materials together, offering a simple and effective means of securing objects in various applications.