Characteristic: Strength MCQs Quiz | Class 9
This quiz is for Class IX students studying Home Science (Code 064), Unit V: Fibre and Fabric. It covers key concepts of fabric characteristics, specifically focusing on Tensile strength and durability. Attempt all questions and click ‘Submit Quiz’ to see your score, then download the PDF answer sheet.
Understanding Fibre and Fabric Strength
The strength and durability of a fabric are two of its most important characteristics, determining its suitability for different uses. These properties are directly linked to the type of fibre used, the yarn structure, and the fabric construction. Understanding these concepts is crucial for making informed choices about textiles for clothing, home furnishings, and industrial applications.
Key Concepts: Strength and Durability
- Tensile Strength: This is the most common measure of a fibre’s strength. It refers to the ability of a material to resist a pulling force or tension. A fibre with high tensile strength can withstand a lot of pulling before it breaks. This is crucial for items like ropes, seatbelts, and upholstery.
- Durability: This is a broader term that describes a fabric’s ability to resist wear and tear over a long period. Durability includes several factors:
- Abrasion Resistance: The ability to withstand rubbing and friction without wearing out. Nylon has excellent abrasion resistance, while silk has poor resistance.
- Tearing Strength: The force required to rip a fabric. This is influenced by yarn strength and fabric weave.
- Resilience: The ability of a fabric to spring back to its original shape after being crushed or wrinkled. Wool and polyester have high resilience.
Strength Comparison of Common Fibres
Fibres can be broadly categorized, and their strength often varies significantly. The length of the fibre also plays a role; long, continuous filament fibres (like silk and synthetics) generally produce stronger yarns than short staple fibres (like cotton and wool).
| Fibre Type | Common Examples | General Strength & Durability |
|---|---|---|
| Natural (Plant-based) | Cotton, Linen (Flax), Jute | Cotton has good strength, which increases when wet. Linen is very strong and durable. Jute is strong but brittle. |
| Natural (Animal-based) | Wool, Silk | Wool has low tensile strength but is very resilient and elastic. Silk is very strong for a natural fibre but has poor abrasion resistance. |
| Synthetic | Nylon, Polyester, Rayon | Nylon and Polyester are exceptionally strong, with high tensile strength and abrasion resistance. Rayon is a weaker fibre, especially when wet. |
Quick Revision Points
- Tensile strength is resistance to pulling forces.
- Durability is overall resistance to wear, including abrasion and tearing.
- Filament fibres (long) are generally stronger than staple fibres (short).
- Nylon is one of the strongest and most durable synthetic fibres.
- Linen is one of the strongest natural fibres.
- A fibre’s strength can change when it gets wet. Cotton and linen become stronger, while rayon becomes significantly weaker.
- Blending fibres, like cotton with polyester, is often done to combine the desirable properties of both, such as comfort and durability.
Practice Questions
- Explain why a nylon backpack is generally more durable than a cotton one for heavy-duty use.
- What is the difference between tearing strength and tensile strength?
- Why does wool, despite its low tensile strength, make for a durable carpet?
- If you were designing a flag that had to withstand strong winds, which fibre would you choose and why?
- How does the weave of a fabric (e.g., plain weave vs. satin weave) impact its durability?
Content created and reviewed by the CBSE Quiz Editorial Team based on the latest NCERT textbooks and CBSE syllabus. Our goal is to help students practice concepts clearly, confidently, and exam-ready through well-structured MCQs and revision content.