The process of separating cotton fibres from seeds by combing is technically referred to as:

Correct Option

The correct option is

Ginning

Explanation

The conversion of raw cotton bolls into finished fabric involves a specific sequence of mechanical processes. These steps transform the natural polymer (cellulose) found in cotton bolls into usable textile materials.

Option Analysis

• Spinning: Incorrect. Spinning is the process of making yarn from fibres. In this stage, fibres are drawn out from a mass of cotton wool and twisted together to form a continuous, strong thread or yarn.
• Weaving: Incorrect. Weaving is the process of arranging two distinct sets of yarns or threads together (usually at right angles) to create a fabric.
• Ginning: Correct. Cotton fibres grow around the seeds inside the cotton boll. Once harvested, the fibres must be separated from the seeds before they can be processed further. This process of separating cotton fibres from seeds by combing is technically called ginning.
• Retting: Incorrect. Retting is a microbial process used for extracting bast fibres like jute or flax. It involves soaking plant stems in water to soften the tissues and separate the fibres from the woody core.

Key Takeaway

Ginning is the separation of fibres from seeds (specific to cotton). Spinning converts fibres into yarn, while Weaving converts yarn into fabric.