The correct option is (b).
Explanation
Natural fibres are biopolymers obtained from specific parts of plants (cellulose-based) or animals (protein-based). The method of extraction depends on the biological source and location of the fibre within the organism.
Statement-wise Analysis:
- Statement 1 is Incorrect. Cotton fibres are not picked from the stem. They are obtained from the fruit of the cotton plant, known as cotton bolls. When the bolls mature, they burst open to reveal the soft fibres.
- Statement 2 is Correct. Jute fibres are extracted from the stem of the jute plant. The harvested stems are submerged in water for a few days to rot the tissues and loosen the fibres, a process known as retting. The fibres are then separated from the stem by hand.
- Statement 3 is Incorrect. Wool is obtained by removing the fleece (hair) from animals like sheep, goats, or yaks through a process called shearing. Ginning is the process used to separate cotton fibres from their seeds.
Key Takeaway:
Cotton is obtained from the fruit (bolls) and processed via ginning. Jute is obtained from the stem via retting. Wool is obtained from animal fleece via shearing.