What mechanism is characteristic of a matchlock firearm?

The characteristic mechanism of a matchlock firearm involves a priming cord that ignites gunpowder. In matchlock guns, a slow-burning match (which is often a piece of cord soaked in a flammable substance) is held in a clamp and positioned next to the gunpowder at the touch hole. When the trigger is pulled, the match is lowered into the touch hole, igniting the gunpowder and firing the shot. This method of ignition is significant because it represents one of the earliest forms of firearm technology, marking a pivotal development in the history of guns.

Understanding the other options can help clarify why they do not pertain to matchlock firearms. A spark generated by a wheel relates to the wheellock mechanism, which uses a spinning wheel to create a spark for ignition. A cap that contains explosive material refers to the caplock system, which utilizes percussion caps to ignite the powder. A lever that triggers the shot is more descriptive of modern firearms and mechanisms like the single or double-action triggers found in later models. Each of these mechanisms represents a different stage in firearm evolution, highlighting the unique nature of the matchlock design.