What is prehension?

Prehension refers to the process of grasping an object or part of an object using the fingers or hand. It involves the coordination of different muscle groups, including those responsible for arm movement, hand opening and closing, and finger movement. The process of prehension is essential for accomplishing many daily tasks, from picking up a cup and pouring a drink to typing on a keyboard or playing a musical instrument. Different types of prehension can be identified, such as precision grip (using the tips of the fingers) or power grip (using the whole hand). Prehension can be studied in various fields, such as neuroscience, psychology, and ergonomics. Factors that influence prehension include the properties of the object being grasped (such as its size, shape, texture, and weight), the task requirements, and the individual's motor abilities.