The Aztecs had no metals, like iron or bronze to make their tools and weapons. Therefore, the ancient Aztec people had to create tools and weapons without the benefit of these precious metals. For this reason, many Aztec tools were made with obsidian and chert. Obsidian is a black volcanic glass and was capable of making razor sharp weaponry, similar to one like metal.This became one of the Aztecs most valuable trade item. After the Aztecs were nearly overcome by the Spanish Conquistadors they began to experiment with copper, by making tools, such as axes. The Aztecs also made a variety of weapons. One weapon, the atlatl, made it easier to throw a spear. Aztec technology had advanced in such a way that they were familiar with the wheel. Unfortunately the wheel was only used in toys. Also the Aztecs did not have horses, mules or other animals that could be used as transportation. Therefore, they developed dugout canoes with which they transported themselves and their goods throughout the many canals, lakes, and waterways. Aztec science relied heavily on math, such as the design of their calendar. Aztec astronomy was also an important component of their calendar, which reflected heavily on their gods. The Aztecs were also advanced in the development of medicine. In fact, Aztec medicine was found in many forms, such as ointments, drinks, and salves. The Mayans The Mayans tools were not made of iron or bronze but instead they were made of a mineral called Jadeite. Jadeite is a strong mineral that is actually stronger than steel, so the Mayans had tools and weapons that were stronger than steel. Mayans used many different structures in their architecture. Some of these structures were bridges to get across rivers, and arches for doorways. Also the Mayans created hydraulic cement and cement castings which allowed them to make buildings and statues faster. The Olmec The Olmec lived in an extremely harsh area that was hot,humid, and swampy, but there were some advantages. They had plenty of clay for pottery and an abundant supply of stone for stone tools and statues. Olmecs used the supplies they had to trade for the supplies they didn't have such as iron ore and various stones. With all the stuff they were receiving from trade the Olmecs were extremely succesful.