Animal Fibres - Silk

Silk, one of the oldest animal fibers, was first developed in China around 5,000 years ago. The discovery is attributed to Empress Si-lung-Chi. Silk production spread globally with the Silk Route. The life cycle of the silk moth involves eggs, caterpillars, cocoons, and moths. Sericulture, the farming of silkworms, is crucial for silk production, with Bombyx mori being the most common. Silk is known for its strength, elasticity, and fine texture. The production process includes reeling and weaving, resulting in high-quality silk fabrics.

How does the quality of silk depend on the leaves fed to the silkworms?

What are the characteristics of silk that make it unique among fibers?

Explain the process of reeling silk from cocoons.