Cotton

Cotton is a soft, fluffy staple fiber that grows in a boll, or protective case, around the seeds of the cotton plants of the genus Gossypium in the mallow family Malvaceae. The fiber is almost pure cellulose. Under natural conditions, the cotton bolls will increase the dispersal of the seeds.

Structure and Composition

The cotton fiber is composed of almost pure cellulose, which is a carbohydrate polymer consisting of a linear chain of several hundred to over ten thousand β(1→4) linked D-glucose units. The fiber cells are elongated and cylindrical, and the length of the fiber varies from 10 mm to 65 mm. The cotton fiber also has a twisted ribbon-like appearance under a microscope.

Uses of Cotton

Cotton is the most widely used natural fiber cloth in clothing today. In addition to clothing, cotton is also used in other daily necessities such as bed sheets, towels, and underwear. It is also widely used in the production of nonwoven products such as wipes, diapers, and medical dressings. Additionally, cottonseed oil, which is extracted from the seeds of the cotton plant, is used for cooking and in products such as salad dressings and mayonnaise.

Cotton Production

Cotton is grown in warm climates and requires a long frost-free period, plenty of sunshine, and moderate rainfall. The leading cotton-producing countries are China, India, and the United States. The process of growing, harvesting, and processing cotton involves several stages including planting, irrigating, picking, ginning, and baling.

Environmental Impact

The production of cotton can have environmental implications, especially when it comes to water usage and the application of pesticides and fertilizers. Sustainable cotton farming practices, such as organic cotton farming and the use of integrated pest management techniques, aim to reduce the environmental impact of cotton cultivation.

Study Guide

Here are some key points to remember when studying cotton:

1. What is the composition of cotton fiber?
2. Describe the structure of cotton fiber.
3. What are some common uses of cotton?
4. Which countries are the leading producers of cotton?
5. Discuss the environmental impact of cotton production and the measures taken to mitigate it.

Remember to also review the stages of cotton production and the favorable conditions required for growing cotton.

Understanding the properties and uses of cotton is essential for appreciating its significance as a natural fiber and its impact on various industries.