Characteristic: Absorbency MCQs Quiz | Class 9

This quiz is for Class IX students studying Home Science (Code 064). It covers Unit V: Fibre and Fabric, focusing on the topic of fabric absorbency. You will be tested on concepts like moisture absorption and its relation to comfort. Answer all 10 questions, submit your quiz to see your score, and then download the answer sheet as a PDF for your records.

Understanding Fabric Absorbency and Comfort

The ability of a fabric to absorb moisture is a crucial characteristic that directly impacts its comfort, use, and care. This property, known as absorbency, determines how a fabric interacts with water, sweat, and humidity. Understanding this concept is essential for choosing the right textiles for different purposes, from clothing to household items.

Key Concepts in Absorbency

1. Moisture Absorption

Fibres are broadly classified based on their affinity for water:

  • Hydrophilic (Water-Loving): These fibres, such as cotton, linen, wool, and rayon, readily absorb water. They can hold a significant amount of moisture, which is why they feel comfortable against the skin in warm weather as they absorb sweat.
  • Hydrophobic (Water-Repelling): These fibres, primarily synthetics like polyester, nylon, and acrylic, do not absorb water easily. They resist moisture penetration and dry very quickly. This property makes them ideal for rainwear, swimwear, and activewear.

2. Comfort

The link between absorbency and comfort is direct and significant. Here’s how:

  • In Hot Weather: Absorbent fabrics like cotton pull sweat away from the skin, allowing it to evaporate and cool the body. This prevents the sticky, clammy feeling associated with non-absorbent materials.
  • In Cold Weather: Fibres like wool can absorb moisture vapor without feeling wet to the touch. This helps to keep the layer of air trapped within the fabric dry, providing excellent insulation and warmth.
  • Wicking: Some fabrics, particularly modern synthetics used in sportswear, are designed to be hydrophobic but have a capillary action that “wicks” moisture. This means they pull sweat from the skin to the outer surface of the fabric, where it can evaporate quickly, keeping the wearer dry and comfortable during intense physical activity.

Comparison of Common Fibres

Fibre Type Absorbency Level Common Uses
Cotton Natural (Plant) High T-shirts, towels, bedsheets
Wool Natural (Animal) High Sweaters, blankets, winter wear
Polyester Synthetic Very Low Activewear, raincoats, upholstery
Nylon Synthetic Low Stockings, swimwear, umbrellas

Quick Revision Points

  • Absorbency: A fibre’s ability to take in moisture.
  • Hydrophilic: Absorbs water (e.g., Cotton, Wool).
  • Hydrophobic: Repels water (e.g., Polyester, Nylon).
  • High absorbency generally leads to greater comfort in everyday wear, especially in warm climates.
  • Low absorbency leads to quick-drying properties, useful for outerwear and sportswear.
  • “Wicking” is the process of moving moisture away from the skin, which is different from absorbing it.

Extra Practice Questions

  1. If you spill water on a polyester shirt, it will most likely:
    a) Soak in quickly
    b) Form beads on the surface
    c) Stain permanently
    d) Shrink immediately
    (Correct Answer: b)
  2. Which property makes wool a good choice for winter socks?
    a) It is hydrophobic
    b) It is lightweight
    c) It can absorb moisture without feeling cold or wet
    d) It dries very quickly
    (Correct Answer: c)
  3. A fabric blend of cotton and polyester is popular because it:
    a) Is very expensive
    b) Combines cotton’s comfort with polyester’s durability and low wrinkling
    c) Is fully waterproof
    d) Is made from only natural sources
    (Correct Answer: b)
  4. The term ‘moisture regain’ refers to:
    a) The amount of water a fabric loses when dried
    b) The ability of a fabric to resist water
    c) The percentage of moisture a completely dry fibre will absorb from the air
    d) How quickly a fabric dries
    (Correct Answer: c)
  5. For athletic wear designed for high-intensity workouts, the most important property is:
    a) High absorbency to hold sweat
    b) Excellent wicking to move sweat away from the skin
    c) Low durability
    d) The ability to retain heat
    (Correct Answer: b)