Definition: Fibre MCQs Quiz | Class 9

This is a multiple-choice quiz for Class IX Home Science (Code 064), Unit V: Fibre and Fabric. It covers the essential topics of the meaning of fibre and its role as the basic textile unit. Test your understanding, submit your answers to see your score, and download the answer sheet as a PDF for future reference.

Understanding Fibre: The Basic Unit of Textiles

In the world of textiles, everything begins with a single, tiny strand called a fibre. A fibre is the smallest visible unit of any textile product. It is a fine, hair-like substance that is characterized by having a very high length compared to its width. These fibres are the fundamental building blocks that are spun into yarn, which is then woven or knitted to create the fabrics we use every day.

Key Concepts: Meaning and Classification

Understanding fibres is crucial to understanding textiles. They are broadly classified into two main categories based on their origin:

1. Natural Fibres

These fibres are obtained from natural sources found in our environment.

  • Plant/Vegetable Fibres: Derived from plants. Examples include Cotton (from the cotton boll), Linen (from the flax plant), and Jute (from the jute plant stem).
  • Animal Fibres: Obtained from animals. The most common examples are Wool (from sheep) and Silk (from the cocoon of the silkworm).
  • Mineral Fibres: These are less common in apparel and are derived from minerals. Asbestos is a well-known example.

2. Man-Made Fibres

These fibres are created through chemical processes in factories. They do not occur naturally.

  • Regenerated Fibres: These are made from natural raw materials (like wood pulp or cotton linters) that are chemically processed to form a fibre structure. Rayon is a primary example.
  • Synthetic Fibres: These are synthesized entirely from chemical substances, often petroleum-based. Examples include Nylon, Polyester, and Acrylic.
Property Natural Fibres (e.g., Cotton) Man-Made Fibres (e.g., Polyester)
Source Plants or animals Chemical synthesis
Moisture Absorption Generally high (absorbent) Generally low (non-absorbent)
Comfort High, breathable Varies, can be less breathable
Durability Good, but can be prone to wear Often very high and resistant to wrinkles

Quick Revision Points

  • Fibre: The smallest, fundamental unit of a fabric.
  • Yarn: A continuous thread made by twisting fibres together.
  • Fabric: A sheet of material made by weaving, knitting, or bonding yarns.
  • Staple Fibres: Short-length fibres (e.g., cotton, wool).
  • Filament Fibres: Long, continuous fibres (e.g., silk, all man-made fibres).
  • The properties of a fibre (like strength, elasticity, and fineness) directly influence the characteristics of the final fabric.

Extra Practice Questions

  1. Differentiate between a staple fibre and a filament fibre, providing one example for each.
  2. Explain why wool is considered a good insulator, making it suitable for winter clothing.
  3. What is the raw material used to produce Rayon?
  4. Name two synthetic fibres and list one major use for each.
  5. Describe the journey from a raw cotton boll to a finished cotton fabric in three basic steps.