Fibre Classification by Origin MCQs Quiz | Class 9

This is an MCQ quiz for Class IX Home Science (Code 064), Unit V: Fibre and Fabric. This quiz covers the topic of fibre classification based on origin, including natural versus man-made fibres. Submit your answers to see your score and then download the answer sheet as a PDF.

Understanding Fibre Classification by Origin

Fibres are the basic raw materials used to make fabrics. The first and most fundamental way to classify fibres is by their origin: where they come from. This classification divides all fibres into two main groups: Natural Fibres and Man-made Fibres.

1. Natural Fibres

These fibres are obtained directly from natural sources like plants, animals, or minerals. They have been used by humans for thousands of years to create clothing and other textiles.

Key Sub-categories of Natural Fibres:

  • Plant (or Vegetable) Fibres: These are derived from various parts of plants. They are primarily composed of cellulose.
    • Seed Fibres: From the seeds, like Cotton and Kapok.
    • Bast Fibres: From the stem or stalk, like Linen (from flax), Jute, and Hemp.
    • Leaf Fibres: From the leaves, like Sisal and Pineapple fibre.
  • Animal Fibres: These are obtained from animals and are primarily composed of protein.
    • Hair/Fleece Fibres: From the fleece of animals, like Wool (from sheep) and Cashmere (from goats).
    • Secretion Fibres: From the secretions of insects, like Silk (from silkworms).
  • Mineral Fibres: These are naturally occurring minerals that can be processed into fibres. The most common example is Asbestos. Due to health concerns, its use is now highly restricted.

2. Man-made Fibres

These fibres are not found in nature and are produced through chemical processes in factories. They can be further divided into two types based on the raw material used.

Key Sub-categories of Man-made Fibres:

  • Regenerated Fibres: These are made from natural raw materials (like wood pulp or cotton linters) that are chemically processed and ‘regenerated’ into a fibrous form. Examples include Rayon (Viscose, Modal) and Lyocell. They share some properties with natural cellulose fibres like cotton.
  • Synthetic Fibres: These are synthesized entirely from chemical substances, typically petroleum derivatives. They are polymers built from simple chemical units. Examples include Nylon, Polyester, Acrylic, and Spandex.

Comparison Table: Natural vs. Man-made Fibres

Characteristic Natural Fibres (e.g., Cotton, Wool) Man-made Fibres (e.g., Polyester, Nylon)
Source Plants, animals, minerals Chemical synthesis (petroleum, wood pulp)
Moisture Absorbency Generally high (hydrophilic) Generally low (hydrophobic)
Durability Varies; Wool is resilient, Cotton is strong when wet Often very strong, abrasion-resistant
Effect of Heat Can scorch or burn Can melt, shrink, or fuse
Biodegradability Biodegradable Generally not biodegradable

Quick Revision Points

  • The primary classification of fibres is based on Origin.
  • Natural Fibres come from nature (plants, animals, minerals).
  • Man-made Fibres are manufactured through chemical processes.
  • Cotton is a plant-based natural fibre from seeds.
  • Wool and Silk are animal-based natural fibres.
  • Rayon is a regenerated fibre, not fully synthetic.
  • Polyester and Nylon are true synthetic fibres made from chemicals.

Extra Practice Questions

  1. Which of the following is a bast fibre: Cotton, Sisal, Jute, or Kapok?
  2. Why is Rayon often called a semi-synthetic fibre?
  3. Name two properties that make synthetic fibres like Polyester popular for sportswear.
  4. Asbestos is a unique fibre because it belongs to which category of natural fibres?
  5. What is the basic chemical component of animal fibres like wool and silk?