Understanding Natural and Synthetic Fibers
Question:
Although cotton and wool are natural fibers, their production uses large quantities of water and other resources. Synthetic materials require chemical processes, but offer several advantages over natural fibers. Select the statement that is not true of natural fibers when compared to synthetic fibers.
A) Natural fibers are more biodegradable.
B) Natural fibers can not be reused and recycled.
C) Natural fibers aren't as durable as synthetics.
D) Natural fibers are less resistant to insect damage.
Answer:
The answer is B. Natural fibers cannot be reused or recycled.
Explanation: They can be reused or recycled.
Natural fibres are biodegradable and they can be recycled and reused as new products. They are durable but not as much synthetic. Thus option B is not true about natural fibres.
What are fibres?
Fibres are polymeric material with strong intermolecular forces between the monomeric units. There are both naturally made fibres and synthetic fibres as well.
Natural fibres include cotton, cellulose, jute etc. They are biodegradable and can be recycled easily by suitable chemical processing and converts to new products. They are durable but synthetic fibres are woven to be more durable than natural.
Synthetic fibres are manmade and they are mixed with additional reagents to make them more resistant to microbes and make them durable. They are also biodegradable. Thus, option B is correct.
Further Explanation:
Natural fibers, such as cotton and wool, are derived from natural sources like plants and animals. While they are renewable and biodegradable, the production process of these fibers often requires a significant amount of water and other resources. On the other hand, synthetic fibers are made from chemical processes and typically offer advantages such as increased durability and resistance to insect damage.
Cotton: Cotton is a widely used natural fiber that is known for its breathability and softness. It is commonly used in clothing and textiles. While cotton is biodegradable, its production can be water-intensive, especially in regions where water scarcity is a concern.
Wool: Wool is another natural fiber that comes from sheep. It is valued for its warmth and insulating properties. Wool is biodegradable and does not require intensive chemical processes for production. However, the wool industry can also have environmental impacts, such as land degradation due to overgrazing.
Synthetic Fibers: Synthetic fibers, such as polyester and nylon, are man-made materials that are often used in a wide range of products, including clothing, carpets, and upholstery. These fibers are typically designed to be more durable and resistant to wear and tear compared to natural fibers. However, the production of synthetic fibers involves chemical processes that can have negative environmental consequences.
In conclusion, while natural fibers have their own set of advantages, synthetic fibers offer benefits in terms of durability and resistance. Understanding the differences between these two types of fibers can help consumers make more informed choices when it comes to selecting products that align with their values and environmental concerns.