Cookware refers to a variety of kitchen tools used for cooking, including pots, pans, skillets, and bakeware. These tools are typically made from materials like stainless steel, cast iron, non-stick surfaces, or copper, each offering different heat conduction properties. Pots and pans are essential for stovetop cooking, while bakeware like baking sheets and cake pans are used in the oven. Specialized cookware like woks, pressure cookers, and Dutch ovens serve unique cooking purposes, such as stir-frying, pressure cooking, or slow-cooking. The right cookware can enhance the cooking process by ensuring even heat distribution and easier food handling.