Question

What are natural fibres? Give two examples.

Answer 1

Hint: They are naturally occurring fibres. They are strong and flexible.

Complete step by step answer:
The fibres which are obtained from natural sources are called natural fibres. The natural sources include plants, animals and other geological processes. The orientation/arrangement of different fibres decides the properties and usage of these fibres. Natural fibres produced by plants and animals can be spun into filament, thread or rope and also can be woven, knitted, matted or bound. The oldest fibres used by mankind are flax, cotton, and silk, but even jute and coir have been cultivated since antiquity. Natural fibres are broadly classified into three types:
Animal fibres: The natural fibres obtained from animals are called animal fibres. For example: wool, silk, etc.
Vegetable fibres: These are the fibres obtained from different parts of a plant. For example: jute, cotton, linen, etc. Their main component is cellulose.
Mineral fibres: The natural fibres obtained from different mineral resources such as asbestos are called mineral fibres.

Additional information: The most widely occurring natural fibre is cotton, which is produced in a number of countries. It is a versatile fibre. Some of the benefits of cotton are:
Cotton doesn’t retain odours.
Cotton is tough and durable.
Cotton holds its shape longer than fabrics infused with high percentages of engineered fibres like spandex.
Cotton doesn’t cling, stink, pill, or irritate the skin.

Note: Generally, when asked about natural fibres, a student only remembers animal and plant fibres. Mark it to remember that mineral fibres are also natural fibres.