Paper and Natural Timbers (AQA GCSE)

What units of measurement do we use to measure the weight of paper?

• mm

• gsm

• cm

• grams

Answer explanation

gsm stands for grams per square metre, and is how we measure the density and weight of paper.

Which of the following is a lightweight, fast-growing hardwood, often used for model-making?

• Larch

• Pine

• Balsa

• Maple

Answer explanation

Balsa wood is often used for modelling because it is very low density and easy to cut and whittle with a craft knife into any shape needed.

A wood with natural waterproofing oils that make it excellent for outdoor use.

• Teak

• Spruce

• Mahogany

• Cedar

Answer explanation

Both teak and cedar can be good for outdoor applications as they are both weather and rot resistant.

Which paper type is ideal for drawing accurately to a scale?

• Bleedproof paper

• Tracing paper

• Grid paper/isometric paper

• Layout paper

What does the FSC stand for?

• Forest Stewardship Council

• Forest Sustainability Charity

• Fair Sustainability Council

• Forest Stewardship Charity

Answer explanation

Seeing the FSC logo on wood products is a great way to tell that it has been sourced sustainably, and has not contributed to ongoing deforestation.

A high-quality paper, good for watercolour painting?

• Ink-jet card

• Bleedproof paper

• Layout paper

• Cartridge paper

A cheap and readily available wood that is easy to work with and good for fence panels?

• Mahogany

• Pine

• Oak

• Maple

Answer explanation

Being a fast-growing softwood, Pine is much more readily available in plentiful supply, and therefore cheaper to obtain for utilities such as fence panels.

Which high-quality paper would be ideal for printing off photographs with a glossy finish?

• Tracing paper

• Cartridge paper

• Bleedproof paper

• Ink-jet card

Which of the following natural timbers has been used successfully in the construction of Royal Navy warships in the past?

• Oak

• Balsa

• Larch

• Beech

Answer explanation

Famous ships of the line such as HMS Victory had hulls constructed from layers of Oak cut from British forests. This incredibly hard timber gave ships great impact resistance to smaller shots.

What is the name of the process by which the cellulose fibres that make paper have water and chemicals added to them to form a fibrous liquid?

• Sizing

• Pulping

• Draining

• Liquifying