Final answer:
Homo erectus exhibited several technical abilities including efficient bipedal locomotion, sophisticated stone tool use, and the use of fire for warmth and cooking. These abilities highlight their advanced cognitive functions and social cooperation, contributing to their survival across diverse environments.
Step-by-step explanation:
Homo erectus was a species of early humans that demonstrated a variety of technical abilities. Some of the key characteristics of Homo erectus include their proficiency in bipedal locomotion, similar in efficiency to modern humans. They had a broader pelvis, longer legs, and arched feet, which allowed for a human-like gait.
One of the most notable technical abilities of Homo erectus was their stone tool technology. They are associated with the Acheulean tool industry, developing more complex tools relative to their predecessors. These included hand axes, which required a higher level of dexterity and cognitive ability to produce, possibly indicating the development of a protolanguage for teaching these skills.
Furthermore, Homo erectus made significant advancements in the use of fire. They relied on fire not only for warmth but also for cooking food, which in turn affected their physical development by reducing the need for large teeth and jaws, due to the softer cooked foods.
The adaptability of Homo erectus to various environments and their ability to care for the sick and elderly suggest a level of social cooperation and possibly a communication system that facilitated collective tasks such as hunting and foraging. This adaptability, coupled with their technological prowess, enabled Homo erectus to survive across diverse climates and geographical regions for an exceptionally long period.