Unseen Passage for Class 5 - Passage 15
Posted by Olympiad Tester on
Velcro, a widely used fastening material, was invented by a Swiss engineer named George de Mestral. Inspired by the way burrs stuck to his dog's fur during a walk in the Swiss Alps, Mestral began researching and experimenting with the idea of creating a fastening mechanism based on tiny hooks and loops.
In 1955, after years of development, Mestral patented his invention. The name "Velcro" is a combination of the French words "velours" (velvet) and "crochet" (hook). Velcro consists of two strips of fabric: one with tiny hooks and the other with tiny loops. When pressed together, the hooks catch the loops, creating a secure fastening that can be easily pulled apart when needed.
Velcro found its first major application in the fashion industry, but its versatility quickly led to widespread use in various fields. Today, Velcro is an integral part of everyday life. From shoes and clothing to bags and wallets, Velcro fasteners are convenient and reliable.
Interestingly, Velcro also made its way beyond Earth. NASA embraced the technology for use in space missions. Velcro's ability to secure objects in a microgravity environment proved invaluable. Astronauts use Velcro strips to keep tools, equipment, and even personal items in place during their missions.
The success of Velcro demonstrates how a simple yet ingenious idea can revolutionize daily life and extend its impact far beyond the boundaries of our planet.
Q1) Who is the inventor of Velcro?
A. Thomas Edison
B. Alexander Graham Bell
C. George de Mestral
D. Leonardo da Vinci
Answer: C. George de Mestral
Q2) What inspired George de Mestral to invent Velcro?
A. A trip to the beach
B. A walk in the Swiss Alps with his dog
C. A visit to a textile factory
D. A dream he had
Answer: B. A walk in the Swiss Alps with his dog
Q3) What do the name "Velcro" components "velours" and "crochet" mean?
A. Velvet and button
B. Velcro and crochet
C. Velvet and hook
D. Velour and clip
Answer: C. Velvet and hook
Q4) How are the two strips of Velcro fabric designed?
A. Both with hooks
B. Both with loops
C. One with hooks and the other with loops
D. One with buttons and the other with zippers
Answer: C. One with hooks and the other with loops
Q5) Where did Velcro find its first major application?
A. Aerospace industry
B. Medical field
C. Fashion industry
D. Automotive industry
Answer: C. Fashion industry
Q6) What is the meaning of the name "Velcro"?
A. Soft fabric
B. Fastening device
C. Velvet touch
D. Hook and loop
Answer: D. Hook and loop
Q7) In which industry did Velcro NOT find widespread use?
A. Fashion
B. Aerospace
C. Medical
D. Automotive
Answer: B. Aerospace
Q8) Where did NASA use Velcro during space missions?
A. On astronaut helmets
B. Securing tools and equipment
C. Attaching communication devices
D. All of the above
Answer: D. All of the above
Q9) What does the microgravity environment in space make challenging for astronauts?
A. Eating meals
B. Keeping objects in place
C. Sleeping
D. Exercising
Answer: B. Keeping objects in place
Q10) What is the main advantage of Velcro in a microgravity environment?
A. It provides warmth
B. It is lightweight
C. It can be easily pulled apart
D. It secures objects without adhesive
Answer: D. It secures objects without adhesive