Which type of tool is a hallmark of the Mesolithic period?

Microlith
Handaxe
Scraper
Burin

The correct answer is (a) microlith. Microliths are small, thin stone tools that were used during the Mesolithic period. They were made by flaking a larger stone into many small pieces, which were then used to make a variety of tools, such as knives, arrowheads, and fishhooks. Microliths are a hallmark of the Mesolithic period because they are the first type of stone tool that was made specifically for a particular purpose.

A handaxe is a large, bifacial stone tool that was used during the Paleolithic period. It is made by flaking both sides of the stone until it has a roughly symmetrical shape. Handaxes were used for a variety of tasks, such as butchering animals, chopping wood, and digging.

A scraper is a stone tool that is used to scrape or smooth surfaces. It is made by flaking one side of the stone to create a sharp edge. Scrapers were used for a variety of tasks, such as preparing hides, working wood, and processing food.

A burin is a stone tool that is used to make incisions or grooves in other materials. It is made by flaking one side of the stone to create a sharp, pointed edge. Burins were used for a variety of tasks, such as engraving bone, making jewelry, and working wood.