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

Which fiber is recognized for having a lustrous appearance similar to silk but is brittle and inelastic?

1. Flax

2. Ramie

3. Polyester

4. Silk

The correct answer is: Ramie

The choice of ramie as the correct answer is based on its unique properties that distinguish it from other fibers. Ramie is a natural fiber derived from the ramie plant, known for its shiny, lustrous appearance which closely resembles that of silk. This aesthetic quality makes it appealing for a range of textiles and home decorating applications. However, ramie does have limitations; it is known to be brittle and inelastic. This means that while it can create fabrics that have a luxurious look, ramie fibers lack the flexibility and stretch found in other textiles, making them less suitable for garments that require a high degree of movement or durability over time. In contrast, the other fibers listed have distinct characteristics that set them apart from ramie. Flax, for instance, is known for its strength and crisp texture but does not possess the same sheen as ramie or silk. Polyester is a synthetic fiber that exhibits durability and elasticity, thereby being more flexible than ramie. Silk, while also lustrous and luxurious, is known for its strength and elasticity, allowing it to retain its shape and withstand wear better than ramie. Thus, ramie's combination of a beautiful sheen with brittleness and inelasticity makes it the fiber best fitting the description in