The Dalek is a beloved character from the popular British science fiction television series, Doctor Who. One of the most iconic features of the Dalek is its plunger, a long metal rod that protrudes from the center of the Dalek’s shell. But why does the Dalek have a plunger? This question has puzzled fans for decades, and in this article, we will explore the mysterious purpose of the Dalek’s plunger. Join us as we delve into the world of Doctor Who and uncover the secrets behind one of the most enigmatic elements of the show.
The Origin of the Dalek’s Plunger
The Plunger’s Appearance in Early Dalek Designs
The Dalek’s plunger has been a defining feature of the Dalek’s design since the very beginning. The earliest Dalek designs, created by designer Raymond Cusick, featured a gun-like weapon attached to the top of the Dalek’s casing. This weapon was designed to resemble a tank gun, and it was initially intended to be used as a weapon.
However, as the Dalek’s design evolved, the gun-like weapon was replaced by the plunger, which became a distinctive feature of the Dalek’s appearance. The plunger was first seen in the 1963 episode “The Daleks,” and it has been a feature of the Dalek’s design ever since.
The plunger’s appearance in early Dalek designs was significant because it helped to distinguish the Daleks from other science fiction villains of the time. The plunger was a unique and distinctive feature of the Dalek’s design, and it helped to make the Daleks one of the most recognizable and iconic villains in science fiction.
Overall, the plunger’s appearance in early Dalek designs was a key moment in the development of the Dalek’s design, and it helped to establish the Daleks as one of the most enduring and beloved villains in science fiction.
The Plunger’s Role in Dalek Weaponry
The Dalek’s plunger, a seemingly innocuous yet distinctive feature of the Dalek’s design, has been a subject of much speculation and debate among fans and experts alike. While the plunger’s purpose may seem obvious to some, others have pondered its true significance in the context of Dalek weaponry.
In the Doctor Who universe, the Daleks are renowned for their advanced technology and ruthless tactics. The plunger, as it is often referred to, appears to be an integral part of the Dalek’s arsenal, used for a variety of purposes, including manipulating objects, exterminating targets, and even projecting energy beams.
One possible explanation for the plunger’s role in Dalek weaponry is that it serves as a multi-functional tool, allowing the Dalek to quickly adapt to changing battlefield conditions. The plunger’s design, with its sleek and aerodynamic shape, suggests that it is capable of delivering powerful impacts or precise, focused energy blasts, depending on the situation.
Furthermore, the plunger’s unique design may also allow the Dalek to interface directly with its technology, providing a tactical advantage in combat. For example, the plunger could be used to interface with the Dalek’s weapons systems, allowing the Dalek to control its weapons remotely or even launch countermeasures against incoming attacks.
Despite its seemingly benign appearance, the plunger’s true purpose remains a mystery, shrouded in secrecy and intrigue. However, one thing is clear: the plunger is an essential component of the Dalek’s arsenal, a versatile and deadly tool that adds to the Dalek’s fearsome reputation as one of the most formidable enemies in the universe.
The Plunger’s Unique Features
The Plunger’s Sphere-Shaped End
The sphere-shaped end of the Dalek’s plunger is one of its most distinctive features. This end is perfectly spherical in shape, with a smooth, metallic surface that gives it a sleek and polished appearance. It is also worth noting that the sphere is fixed to the end of a long, flexible rod, which allows the Dalek to manipulate and control its surroundings with ease.
One of the key functions of the sphere-shaped end is its ability to emit a powerful energy beam. This beam is generated by the Dalek’s weapon systems and is capable of destroying anything that stands in its way. The beam is emitted from the sphere’s surface, which is studded with small, glowing elements that pulse with energy.
The sphere-shaped end is also equipped with a number of sensors and scanners, which allow the Dalek to gather information about its environment. These sensors are highly advanced and are capable of detecting even the slightest changes in temperature, light, and sound. This allows the Dalek to detect and respond to even the most subtle changes in its surroundings, making it a formidable and unpredictable opponent.
In addition to its destructive capabilities and sensory functions, the sphere-shaped end of the Dalek’s plunger also serves as a symbol of the Dalek’s power and authority. The sphere’s gleaming surface and powerful energy beam embody the Dalek’s unwavering determination to dominate and conquer, making it a truly terrifying weapon in the hands of these mechanical beings.
The Plunger’s Durability and Versatility
The Dalek’s Plunger, a distinctive feature of the iconic Doctor Who villains, is renowned for its durability and versatility. This seemingly simple yet essential tool is crafted from a strong and resilient material, allowing it to withstand the wear and tear of countless battles across time and space. The plunger’s robust design ensures that it remains functional even in the most intense confrontations with the Doctor and his companions.
Moreover, the versatility of the plunger is a testament to its ingenuity. The device serves multiple purposes, which are essential to the Daleks’ domination and extermination of other life forms. The plunger’s primary function is to control the Dalek’s mechanical systems, including the movement of its armor and the activation of its weapons. However, it also serves as a communication device, enabling the Daleks to receive commands and relay information to their fellow soldiers.
Additionally, the plunger is crucial for the Daleks’ propagation, as it is used to create more Daleks by encasing other beings in the Time War in the metal casing. The plunger’s role in the creation of new Daleks underscores its importance in the Dalek’s genetic hierarchy, solidifying its status as a powerful and indispensable tool for the villainous race.
Overall, the Dalek’s Plunger is a symbol of the Daleks’ advanced technology and their unwavering determination to conquer and destroy. Its durability and versatility are essential aspects of the Dalek’s arsenal, making it a feared and formidable weapon in the universe of Doctor Who.
The Plunger’s Use in Combat
The Plunger as a Melee Weapon
While the primary function of the Dalek’s plunger appears to be exterminating its enemies from a distance, it also serves as a formidable melee weapon when close combat becomes inevitable. The plunger’s unique design and durable materials allow it to be used as a deadly and efficient melee weapon.
One of the key features of the plunger that makes it effective in melee combat is its rigid and solid construction. Made from a dense metal alloy, the plunger is able to withstand significant impacts without sustaining damage or breaking. This makes it a reliable and dependable weapon for the Dalek to use in close quarters combat situations, where its opponents may be able to get too close for the Dalek’s ray gun to be effective.
Additionally, the plunger’s long handle provides the Dalek with a reach advantage over its enemies, allowing it to strike from a safe distance while still being able to land powerful blows. The handle also serves as a pivot point, allowing the Dalek to swing the plunger with great force and accuracy.
Another aspect of the plunger that contributes to its effectiveness as a melee weapon is its weight. The heavy metal construction of the plunger gives it a significant amount of momentum when swung, making it a formidable weapon in close combat. The weight of the plunger also allows it to be used as a bludgeoning weapon, capable of causing serious damage to its targets.
In conclusion, the Dalek’s plunger serves as a versatile and effective weapon, capable of being used both as a ranged weapon and as a deadly melee weapon. Its durable construction, long handle, and weight all contribute to its effectiveness in combat, making it a valuable tool for the Dalek in its quest for dominance.
The Plunger’s Ability to Destroy Objects
The Dalek’s plunger, often referred to as the “destructor,” is a crucial component of the Dalek’s arsenal. Its primary function is to destroy objects and adversaries, making it a formidable weapon in the Dalek’s battle for supremacy. The plunger’s ability to destroy objects is rooted in its advanced technology and design, allowing it to emit powerful energy bursts that can obliterate even the most durable materials.
Energy Bursts and Material Degradation
The plunger’s destructive power lies in its ability to emit concentrated energy bursts that disrupt the molecular bonds of objects. This energy is generated by the Dalek’s internal power source and is channeled through the plunger, creating a focused beam of energy that can be directed at targets. The energy bursts emit gamma radiation, causing the target’s molecular structure to disintegrate, effectively dismantling the object at the atomic level.
Efficiency and Versatility
The plunger’s ability to destroy objects is not limited to just physical materials. It can also be used to disable electronic systems, disrupt energy fields, and even vaporize living beings. This versatility makes the plunger a formidable weapon in a variety of combat situations, allowing the Dalek to adapt to any threat or obstacle.
Durability and Reliability
Another advantage of the plunger is its durability and reliability. The plunger is constructed from a highly resistant material, making it capable of withstanding even the most intense battles. Additionally, the plunger’s design allows it to be easily replaced or repaired in the event of damage, ensuring that the Dalek’s weapon remains effective at all times.
Tactical Advantage
The plunger’s ability to destroy objects provides the Dalek with a significant tactical advantage in combat. It allows the Dalek to clear a path through enemy lines, neutralize obstacles, and eliminate opposing forces with ease. The plunger’s destructive power also instills fear in opponents, as they know that a single hit from the plunger could mean the end of their existence.
Limitations and Countermeasures
While the plunger’s ability to destroy objects is a powerful weapon, it is not without limitations. The plunger’s energy bursts can be deflected or absorbed by certain materials, such as energy shields or force fields. Additionally, some adversaries may possess the ability to regenerate or repair themselves, making the plunger’s destructive power less effective against them.
Despite these limitations, the plunger remains a formidable weapon in the Dalek’s arsenal, and they have developed various countermeasures to overcome these challenges. For example, the Daleks have developed new types of energy bursts that can penetrate shields or force fields, and they have developed technology to counter regenerative abilities.
In conclusion, the plunger’s ability to destroy objects is a critical component of the Dalek’s combat strategy. Its versatility, durability, and efficiency make it a potent weapon, capable of neutralizing even the most formidable adversaries. However, the plunger’s limitations and countermeasures must be carefully considered and addressed to ensure its continued effectiveness in battle.
The Plunger’s Psychological Impact on Enemies
The Intimidation Factor of the Plunger
The Dalek’s plunger is a weapon that is as iconic as it is enigmatic. While its destructive capabilities are undeniable, it is also a tool that the Daleks use to exert control over their enemies. The plunger’s psychological impact on enemies is a crucial aspect of the Dalek’s arsenal, and it serves to intimidate and subjugate those who dare to stand against them.
One of the key factors that contributes to the plunger’s intimidation factor is its distinctive design. The plunger is a long, slender weapon that is attached to the Dalek’s armor, giving it a commanding presence on the battlefield. Its sleek, metallic surface and menacing shape convey a sense of power and invincibility, instilling fear in the hearts of the Dalek’s enemies.
Furthermore, the plunger’s ability to fire a variety of deadly projectiles, including energy beams and explosive charges, only adds to its intimidation factor. The sheer destructive potential of the plunger is enough to make even the bravest of enemies tremble with fear. The sight of a Dalek brandishing its plunger is enough to strike terror into the hearts of even the most formidable adversaries.
The plunger’s psychological impact on enemies is not limited to its physical appearance and destructive capabilities, however. The Daleks are known for their ruthlessness and lack of mercy, and the plunger serves as a symbol of their unyielding determination to exterminate all who stand in their way. The mere sight of a Dalek wielding its plunger is enough to instill a sense of hopelessness and despair in those who are unfortunate enough to cross its path.
Moreover, the plunger’s use as a means of punishment and control further enhances its intimidation factor. Daleks are not known for their leniency, and those who dare to defy them can expect to be subjected to the full force of their wrath. The plunger is often used to subdue and punish enemies, and its use serves as a warning to others of the consequences of disobedience.
In conclusion, the Dalek’s plunger is a weapon that is as much a symbol of the Daleks’ power and intimidation as it is a tool of destruction. Its distinctive design, destructive capabilities, and use as a means of punishment and control all contribute to its ability to strike fear into the hearts of even the bravest of enemies. The plunger’s psychological impact on enemies is a crucial aspect of the Dalek’s arsenal, and it serves to reinforce their reputation as ruthless and unforgiving conquerors.
The Plunger as a Symbol of Dalek Dominance
The Dalek’s plunger is a prominent feature of their design, often positioned on top of the Dalek’s armor. It serves as a symbol of the Dalek’s dominance over their enemies, a visual representation of their power and control.
One way in which the plunger symbolizes Dalek dominance is through its use as a weapon. The plunger is often used to exterminate enemies, both individually and en masse. By wielding the plunger, the Daleks demonstrate their ability to eliminate their foes with ease, instilling fear and submission in those who dare to oppose them.
Furthermore, the plunger serves as a reminder of the Daleks’ superior intelligence and technological advancement. The plunger’s sleek, metallic design contrasts sharply with the more organic, human-like forms of their enemies, highlighting the Daleks’ artificial nature and advanced engineering.
In addition to its weaponry and design, the plunger also serves as a means of communication and control. Daleks often use the plunger to issue commands or to threaten their enemies, emphasizing their dominance and authority.
Overall, the Dalek’s plunger serves as a potent symbol of their dominance over their enemies, embodying their power, control, and technological superiority. Through its use as a weapon, design, and means of communication, the plunger helps to reinforce the Daleks’ status as the supreme beings in their universe.
The Plunger’s Significance in Dalek Culture
The Plunger as a Unifying Symbol for Dalek Society
The Dalek’s plunger serves as a unifying symbol for Dalek society, embodying the collective ideology and aspirations of the Dalek race. It is not merely a tool for extermination, but a symbol of power and unity that binds the Daleks together. The plunger’s design, function, and usage within Dalek culture are all integral to its significance as a unifying symbol.
- Design and Function: The plunger is an integral part of the Dalek’s weaponry, mounted on top of the Dalek’s armor. Its sleek, angular design complements the Dalek’s overall aesthetic, giving it a sense of purpose and menace. The plunger’s primary function is to emit energy bolts that can destroy anything in its path. However, it also serves as a symbol of the Dalek’s superiority and dominance over other beings.
- Usage in Dalek Culture: The plunger is used not only as a weapon but also as a symbol of the Dalek’s power and authority. Daleks frequently use the plunger to exterminate enemies, both individual and en masse, showcasing their destructive capabilities. However, the plunger is also used in ceremonial events and rituals within Dalek society, signifying the Daleks’ collective strength and unity. For instance, during the annual Dalek Festival, Daleks from different factions come together to compete in various contests, showcasing their skills and abilities. The plunger is often used as a symbol of honor and recognition during these events, presented to victorious Daleks as a testament to their valor and prowess.
- Symbolic Meaning: The plunger serves as a powerful symbol of the Dalek’s collective identity and aspirations. It represents the Daleks’ unwavering determination to achieve dominance over all other lifeforms, symbolizing their relentless pursuit of power and superiority. The plunger’s design, with its sleek lines and deadly energy bolts, reinforces the Daleks’ reputation as ruthless and unstoppable foes. It is also a symbol of the Daleks’ technological prowess, showcasing their advanced weaponry and capabilities.
In conclusion, the Dalek’s plunger serves as a unifying symbol for Dalek society, embodying the collective ideology and aspirations of the Dalek race. Its design, function, and usage within Dalek culture all contribute to its significance as a symbol of power, unity, and dominance.
The Plunger’s Role in Dalek Moral Code
The plunger of a Dalek serves as a potent symbol of the Dalek’s moral code, which is rooted in their unwavering belief in their own superiority and the need to exterminate all who oppose them. This belief system is reinforced by the plunger’s design, which serves as a tool for the Daleks to carry out their genocidal agenda.
One of the primary functions of the plunger is to project energy bolts that can be used to destroy targets, both individually and en masse. This destructive capability is an integral part of the Dalek’s role as a military force, and the plunger’s design reflects this by being a primary means of exterminating those who pose a threat to the Dalek’s power and control.
However, the plunger’s role in the Dalek moral code goes beyond mere destruction. The Daleks view themselves as the ultimate embodiment of perfection, and they see it as their duty to impose their superiority on others. The plunger, with its distinctive shape and design, serves as a symbol of this desire to impose order and control on the universe.
Additionally, the plunger is often used to punish those who fail to meet the Dalek’s expectations, either through acts of rebellion or failure to comply with their commands. The plunger’s energy bolts are a potent reminder of the Dalek’s absolute power and the consequences of disobedience.
In summary, the plunger of a Dalek serves as a powerful symbol of the Dalek’s moral code, which is centered on their belief in their own superiority and the need to exterminate all who oppose them. Its design reflects the Dalek’s role as a military force, and its use serves as a reminder of the consequences of disobedience and non-compliance.
The Plunger’s Place in Dalek Evolution
The Plunger’s Role in Dalek Technological Advancements
The Plunger as a Tool for Resource Management
One of the key roles that the plunger plays in Dalek technological advancements is as a tool for resource management. Daleks are known for their meticulous organization and resource allocation, and the plunger is an essential component of this process.
The Plunger’s Role in Dalek Power Systems
Another important function of the plunger is its role in Dalek power systems. Daleks rely on a complex network of power sources to fuel their operations, and the plunger is instrumental in managing these systems. It is used to control and redirect power flow, ensuring that the Dalek’s energy needs are met at all times.
The Plunger’s Role in Dalek Weaponry
The plunger also plays a critical role in Dalek weaponry. It is used to activate and control a variety of weapons, including energy beams, force fields, and extermination devices. The plunger’s precise movements and forceful thrusts are what enable Daleks to unleash their devastating attacks on their enemies.
The Plunger’s Role in Dalek Transportation
Finally, the plunger is also used in Dalek transportation systems. It is used to control and navigate Dalek ships and other vehicles, allowing Daleks to travel across vast distances in search of new worlds to conquer and dominate.
Overall, the plunger is an essential component of Dalek technological advancements, playing a crucial role in a wide range of areas, from resource management to weaponry to transportation. Its precise movements and powerful thrusts are what make the Daleks such a formidable force, feared and respected by many in the universe.
The Plunger’s Influence on Dalek Design
The Role of the Plunger in Dalek Physiology
The Dalek’s plunger plays a significant role in their overall physiology, serving as an integral component of their weaponry and manipulation of their environment. Its placement at the center of the Dalek’s casing highlights its importance in their design, emphasizing its centrality to the Dalek’s identity.
The Plunger’s Impact on Dalek Movement and Mobility
In addition to its weaponry and manipulation capabilities, the plunger also contributes to the Dalek’s movement and mobility. By extending and retracting, the plunger acts as a means of propulsion, allowing the Dalek to traverse various terrains with ease. This versatility in movement enhances the Dalek’s ability to navigate their environment and pursue their enemies.
The Symbolic Significance of the Plunger in Dalek Culture
Furthermore, the plunger holds symbolic significance within Dalek culture. Its prominent position on the Dalek’s casing serves as a representation of their power and authority, emphasizing their dominance over other beings. This symbolism is further reinforced by the plunger’s use as a weapon, underscoring the Dalek’s destructive potential.
The Evolution of the Plunger’s Design and Functionality
Over time, the design and functionality of the plunger have evolved, reflecting the changing needs and priorities of the Daleks. From its initial use as a basic manipulation tool to its development into a more advanced weapon system, the plunger has undergone numerous modifications to suit the Dalek’s evolving agenda.
The Influence of the Plunger on Dalek Aesthetics
The prominence of the plunger in Dalek design has also had an impact on their overall aesthetics. Its distinctive shape and central placement have become iconic features of the Dalek’s appearance, contributing to their recognizable silhouette and reinforcing their menacing presence.
In summary, the plunger’s influence on Dalek design is multifaceted, encompassing its role in physiology, movement, symbolism, and evolution. Its significance in Dalek culture and identity is evident in its prominent position on their casing and its role as a symbol of their power and authority.
The Plunger in Popular Culture
The Plunger as a Recurring Symbol in Doctor Who
In the popular television series Doctor Who, the Dalek’s plunger has become a recurring symbol that has captivated audiences for decades. This seemingly innocuous tool has been featured in numerous episodes, becoming an iconic representation of the Daleks’ malevolent nature. The plunger’s recurring presence in the show has led to a plethora of fan theories and discussions about its purpose, further adding to the Daleks’ enigmatic appeal.
The plunger has been portrayed as a tool of extermination, used by the Daleks to carry out their genocidal agenda. In many episodes, the plunger is shown being used to destroy entire civilizations, leaving behind only dust and ashes. The plunger’s association with destruction and death has become synonymous with the Daleks themselves, making it a powerful symbol of their evil intentions.
Another theory suggests that the plunger serves as a means of control for the Daleks. By wielding the plunger, the Daleks are able to manipulate and dominate other beings, both physically and mentally. The plunger’s long handle allows the Daleks to maintain a safe distance from their enemies, while its metallic tip serves as a weapon that can incapacitate or kill with ease. This theory further reinforces the idea that the Daleks are a technologically advanced race with a deep understanding of weaponry and control mechanisms.
Despite its ominous connotations, the plunger has also been used for comedic effect in some episodes. Its absurd appearance and ridiculous function have been the subject of many jokes and parodies, highlighting the Daleks’ comically inept nature. This lighter perspective on the plunger highlights the contrast between its deadly capabilities and its often silly use in the show, making it a versatile symbol that can be interpreted in many different ways.
In conclusion, the Dalek’s plunger has become a recurring symbol in Doctor Who, representing the Daleks’ destructive nature and their quest for control. Its appearance in numerous episodes has led to a wealth of fan theories and discussions, making it an enduring icon of the show’s popular culture. Whether seen as a tool of extermination, a symbol of control, or a source of comedy, the plunger remains an integral part of the Daleks’ mystique and a lasting legacy of the show’s enduring appeal.
The Plunger’s Cultural Significance Beyond Doctor Who
Influence on Pop Art
The Dalek’s Plunger has been an inspiration for various artists in the pop art movement. The plunger’s distinctive shape and design have been reinterpreted and reimagined in various art forms, reflecting the influence of the iconic Doctor Who prop on popular culture.
Andy Warhol’s Dalek Series
Andy Warhol, the renowned American artist, created a series of screen prints featuring the Daleks, including the Plunger, in the 1980s. These works showcase the Dalek’s Plunger as a symbol of pop culture, highlighting its impact on the visual language of art and design.
Keith Haring’s Dalek Graffiti
Keith Haring, an influential street artist, also incorporated the Dalek’s Plunger into his work. Haring’s graffiti, which often featured bold, simple lines and icons, included a number of Daleks and Plungers, showcasing their appeal as symbols of popular culture and science fiction.
Toys and Collectibles
The Dalek’s Plunger has been a popular component in merchandise related to Doctor Who. Fans of the show have sought out and collected various plunger-shaped toys, figurines, and other collectibles, contributing to the Plunger’s enduring cultural significance beyond the series.
Plunger-Themed Merchandise
A wide range of plunger-themed merchandise has been produced over the years, catering to the interest of fans and collectors. These items include plush toys, keychains, and even replica props, demonstrating the Plunger’s appeal as a recognizable symbol within the Doctor Who universe and beyond.
Fan Art and Cosplay
The Dalek’s Plunger has also become a popular element in fan art and cosplay, reflecting the impact of the prop on the imaginations of Doctor Who fans. Artists and cosplayers often incorporate the Plunger into their creations, showcasing its significance as a recognizable and iconic component of the series.
Plunger-Inspired Costumes
Cosplayers have been known to create intricate costumes based on the Dalek’s Plunger, showcasing their skills and passion for the series. These costumes often feature intricate details and replicas of the Plunger, highlighting its importance as a symbol of Doctor Who’s legacy and appeal.
Online Communities and Fandom
The Dalek’s Plunger has become a topic of discussion and fascination within online communities of Doctor Who fans. Online forums, social media platforms, and fan sites dedicated to the series often feature discussions, debates, and theories about the Plunger’s purpose and significance within the Doctor Who universe.
Plunger-Focused Discussions
These online communities have provided a platform for fans to share their interpretations, theories, and art related to the Plunger. Conversations around the Plunger’s potential functions, cultural impact, and role in the series have become a significant aspect of Doctor Who fandom, showcasing its enduring influence beyond the television screen.
In conclusion, the Dalek’s Plunger has transcended its role as a prop in Doctor Who, becoming an iconic symbol of popular culture. Its presence in various art forms, merchandise, fan art, and online discussions demonstrates its lasting significance and impact on the wider cultural landscape.
FAQs
1. What is a Dalek?
A Dalek is a fictional alien race from the British science fiction television series Doctor Who. They are often depicted as having a distinctive cylindrical shape, with a plunger-like weapon on the front.
2. Why does the Dalek have a plunger?
The plunger on a Dalek is actually a weapon, known as the “Dalek gun.” It is designed to be used for exterminating enemies, and is a key feature of the Dalek’s appearance. The plunger is able to emit a variety of different energy beams, depending on the specific model of Dalek.
3. Is the plunger the only weapon a Dalek has?
No, the plunger is not the only weapon a Dalek has. Many Dalek models also have other weapons, such as guns mounted on the top of their casing, or energy beams that are emitted from their eyes. Additionally, Daleks are able to use their superior intelligence and technology to devise new ways of attacking their enemies.
4. What is the origin of the Dalek’s plunger?
The Dalek’s plunger is a design element that was introduced in the early episodes of Doctor Who, and has remained a constant feature of the Dalek’s appearance ever since. It is thought that the plunger was added to the Dalek’s design in order to make them look more menacing and futuristic.
5. Can the plunger be removed from a Dalek?
In most cases, the plunger is an integral part of a Dalek’s design, and cannot be removed. However, in some instances, Daleks have been shown to be able to retract or extend their plungers, or to use them in different ways. This suggests that the plunger is not a fixed feature, but can be modified or adapted by the Daleks themselves.
