American Association of Family and Consumer Sciences (AAFCS) Practice Test

What type of fibers are produced in a laboratory or factory?

1. Synthetic fibers

2. Natural fibers

3. Yarn fibers

4. Silk fibers

The correct answer is: Synthetic fibers

Synthetic fibers are created in controlled environments such as laboratories or factories, using chemical processes and raw materials derived from petrochemicals. The production of synthetic fibers involves techniques like polymerization, where small molecules (monomers) are chemically combined to form long-chain molecules (polymers). This process allows for precise control over the fiber's properties, such as strength, elasticity, and moisture-wicking capabilities, making synthetic fibers popular for various textile applications. In contrast, natural fibers are derived from plants, animals, or minerals and are harvested directly from nature. Yarn fibers refer to strands of material that can be made from either natural or synthetic fibers, while silk fibers are a specific type of natural fiber that originates from silkworms. Neither of these categories implies laboratory production, thus reinforcing that synthetic fibers are uniquely produced through industrial methods.