Archimedes' Screw

ancient-invention · engineering · water

Lifts water upward. The screw has a twisted blade inside a cylinder that scoops up water at the bottom and pushes it higher as the screw spins, like a spiral staircase for water.

Simple but brilliant. Archimedes, a famous mathematician from ancient Greece, invented this machine over 2,000 years ago, and people still use similar designs today.

Works two ways. You can spin the screw to pump water up, or let falling water spin the screw to create power, making it useful in mills and farms.

Solves big problems. This invention was perfect for draining swamps, watering fields far from rivers, and even helping ancient boats get fresh water during long voyages.