Question

Which of these fibres is non- biodegradable?
A.Cotton
B.Jute
C.Wool
D.Nylon

Answer 1

Hint:Non- biodegradable substances are those substances which cannot be decomposed by natural agents namely microbes. They remain on the earth for thousands of years without any degradation. Natural substances and fibres are biodegradable and can be decomposed by natural agents, whereas synthetic or man- made fibres tend to be non- biodegradable.

Complete answer:
Natural fibers are fibers obtained from natural sources like plants and animals. Some common examples of natural fibres are cotton, silk, wool, etc.
Synthetic fibers are the fibers which are prepared by human beings in laboratories. They are polymers formed by repeating units of various monomers. Various synthetic fibers used commonly are nylon, acrylics and polyesters. Synthetic fibers are preferred over natural fibers as they are durable and elastic. Synthetic fibers are strong, soft and cheaper as compared to natural fibers.
In the given question, nylon is a synthetic fibre whereas all the others are natural. Thus, nylon is a non- biodegradable fibre.

Thus, the correct answer is D.

Note:
Nylon is a silky thermoplastic polymer which has various properties that make it suitable for use as fibres. It has compact molecular structure and has high elasticity and tenacity. It has good weathering properties. It does not crease easily when worn and creases and pleats required may be heat set at high temperatures. Nylon has the ability to look lustrous, dull or semi- lustrous in appearance. Another advantage of nylon is that it does not catch fire unlike cotton and rayon that are combustible. Nylon fibres also have high resistance to fungi, insects, animals, mildew, molds, rot and many various chemicals.