Fibre Collection & Identification + Burning Tests MCQs Quiz | Class 9
This quiz is for Class IX students studying Home Science (Code 064), focusing on the Practical unit. It covers the topic of Fibre Collection & Identification, specifically testing your knowledge on physical characteristics and burning test indicators. Attempt all questions, submit your answers to see your score, and download the answer sheet as a PDF for your records.
Understanding Fibre Identification
Identifying different types of textile fibres is a fundamental skill in Home Science. It helps in understanding the properties of fabrics, their appropriate use, and how to care for them. There are two primary methods for simple fibre identification: examining physical characteristics and conducting a burning test.
1. Identification by Physical Characteristics
This method involves using your senses of sight and touch to determine the type of fibre. Key characteristics to observe include:
- Lustre: How the fibre reflects light. Silk has a high, natural lustre, while cotton is typically dull.
- Feel (Hand): How the fibre feels against the skin. Wool feels warm and slightly coarse, cotton feels cool and soft, and silk feels smooth and luxurious.
- Texture: The surface quality of the fibre. Linen has a crisp, textured feel, while polyester can feel smooth and slippery.
- Strength: How easily the fibre breaks. Natural fibres like cotton are weaker when wet, whereas synthetic fibres like nylon are very strong.
2. Identification by Burning Test
The burning test is a more definitive method for identifying fibres. By carefully observing how a small sample of fibre reacts when introduced to and removed from a flame, you can identify its origin (natural or synthetic) and often the specific type of fibre. You must conduct this test with extreme caution under adult supervision.
Key Indicators in a Burning Test:
- Reaction to Flame: Does it ignite quickly, slowly, or does it melt and shrink away from the flame?
- Flame Characteristics: The color and nature of the flame (e.g., steady, sputtering).
- Smell: The odor produced while burning is a major clue. Cellulosic fibres (cotton) smell like burning paper, while protein fibres (wool, silk) smell like burning hair or feathers.
- Residue (Ash): The characteristics of the ash left after burning. Cotton leaves a fine, grey ash, while synthetic fibres often leave a hard, black bead.
Burning Test Results for Common Fibres
| Fibre | In Flame | Smell | Residue |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cotton | Burns quickly with a yellow flame. | Like burning paper. | Light, feathery grey ash. |
| Wool | Burns slowly, self-extinguishes when flame is removed. | Like burning hair. | Brittle, black, irregular ash. |
| Silk | Burns slowly, curls away from flame, self-extinguishes. | Like burning feathers or hair. | Black, brittle, crushable bead. |
| Nylon | Melts, shrinks from flame, then burns slowly. | Like celery or plastic. | Hard, black or grey, uncrushable bead. |
| Polyester | Melts and shrinks, burns with black smoke. | Slightly sweet, chemical smell. | Hard, round, black, uncrushable bead. |
Quick Revision Points
- Natural Cellulosic Fibres: Cotton, Linen. Smell like burning paper.
- Natural Protein Fibres: Wool, Silk. Smell like burning hair/feathers.
- Synthetic Fibres: Nylon, Polyester. Melt and form a hard bead.
- Cotton is cool to touch, while wool is warm.
- Silk is known for its high lustre and smooth feel.
- Always prioritize safety when performing a burning test.
Extra Practice Questions
- You are given a fabric that feels smooth, has a high shine, and when burned, smells like burning feathers. What is it likely to be?
- A fibre sample melts and shrinks away from a flame, leaving a hard, black bead that cannot be crushed. What category of fibre does this belong to?
- What is the primary difference in the burning residue between a protein fibre like wool and a cellulosic fibre like cotton?
- Describe two physical characteristics you would use to distinguish between a cotton and a polyester fabric without burning them.
- Why is it important to know the fibre content of a garment before ironing it?
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