Which stone tool has a pointed, oval shape and is used as a core?

The correct answer is the Abbevillian handaxe. This tool is characterized by its pointed, oval shape, which is specifically designed for a range of cutting and processing tasks. Handaxes from the Abbevillian period are often bifacially worked, meaning that they have been shaped on both sides to create a sharp edge.

The Abbevillian handaxe represents a significant technological advancement in early human tool-making, showcasing the ability to create tools that are not only effective but also have a specific form that facilitates their use. Its design suggests that it was used for various purposes, such as butchering animals or processing plant materials.

In contrast, while the other options represent important types of stone tools, they do not exhibit the described characteristics of a pointed, oval shape used as a core. For instance, a Mousterian sidescraper has a different form optimized for scraping, a chopper typically displays a more asymmetrical shape, and a Levallois core refers to a method of producing flakes rather than a tool with a pointed, oval shape. Each of these tools serves distinct functions in the broader context of prehistoric tool technology, highlighting the diversity and specialization among early stone tools.