Which property aligns with calico's described characteristics?

Which property aligns with calico's described characteristics?

• A. Colorful florals
• B. Excellent absorbency
• C. Uses: children's wear, curtains
• D. Waterproof coating

Answer: (B)

Calico is a plain-woven cotton fabric, so its most relevant characteristic is its ability to absorb moisture readily. Cotton fibers are cellulose-based and have a porous, capillary structure that draws in and holds liquids, making fabrics like calico highly absorbent. This is why excellent absorbency best describes calico’s characteristics and what you’d expect from a cotton fabric. Patterns or prints (like colorful florals) describe appearance, not how the fabric behaves with moisture. Possible uses (such as for children’s wear or curtains) refer to applications, not a fundamental property. A waterproof coating would give resistance to water, which contradicts cotton’s natural tendency to absorb water unless it’s specially treated.

Calico is a plain-woven cotton fabric, so its most relevant characteristic is its ability to absorb moisture readily. Cotton fibers are cellulose-based and have a porous, capillary structure that draws in and holds liquids, making fabrics like calico highly absorbent. This is why excellent absorbency best describes calico’s characteristics and what you’d expect from a cotton fabric.

Patterns or prints (like colorful florals) describe appearance, not how the fabric behaves with moisture. Possible uses (such as for children’s wear or curtains) refer to applications, not a fundamental property. A waterproof coating would give resistance to water, which contradicts cotton’s natural tendency to absorb water unless it’s specially treated.