tractor

A tractor is a motor vehicle designed for agricultural work. Its primary function is to provide high torque at low speeds to pull or power implements such as plows, harrows, seed drills, and harvesters. Most modern tractors run on diesel fuel and use a robust drivetrain with four wheels or tracks, enabling stable operation on uneven terrain.

Tractors originated in the late 19th and early 20th centuries with steam-powered models; internal combustion engines became standard in the 1910s and 1920s. Early manufacturers include John Deere, International Harvester, and Ford. The development of the three-point hitch and the power take-off in the mid-20th century broadened their capability by allowing a wide range of attachments.

A typical tractor includes an engine, transmission, axle or track system, hydraulics, and a mounting frame. The three-point hitch and PTO provide attachment and drivetrain power. Modern tractors offer diesel engines with turbocharging, independent front suspension on some models, and optional features such as cab enclosures, four-wheel drive, and variable-speed transmissions.

Tractors are used for field preparation, planting, cultivating, fertilizing, harvesting, and material transport. Attachments include plows, harrows, seeders, balers, loaders, backhoes, and mowers. Compact or subcompact tractors are designed for small farms or property maintenance, while row-crop or utility tractors are built for larger-scale operations.

Mechanization of agriculture with tractors increased productivity but also altered labor patterns and farm economics. Safety concerns include roll-over accidents, fatigue, and chemical exposure; equipment features such as roll-over protection structures, seat belts, and operator training mitigate risks. Tractors are used in forestry, construction, and landscaping, extending their role beyond farming.