The term ____________ is used to indicate the solution of resins or resinous substances prepared either in alcohol, oil or turpentine.
🔬 Understanding the Definition of Varnish
The question asks for the specific term that describes a complete solution made of resin dissolved in a liquid. This is the fundamental definition of varnish.
Varnish: A transparent, hard, protective finish or film. It is made from a resin (e.g., rosin, copal, shellac) dissolved in a liquid, which can be a drying oil, a volatile solvent like alcohol, or turpentine. Unlike paint, varnish has little or no pigment and is usually transparent or translucent.
The Basic Formula:
The core concept is: Resin + Solvent/Vehicle = Varnish. The type of solvent or vehicle used determines the type of varnish (e.g., oil varnish, spirit varnish).
⚖️ Detailed Analysis of the Options
Let's clarify why the other terms are incorrect.
(b) Varnish
Role: This is the final product described in the question—a solution of resin in a liquid.
Function: To provide a protective, often glossy, transparent coating on surfaces, especially wood, to highlight its natural grain.
(a) Turpentine
Role: An ingredient, specifically a volatile solvent.
Function: Turpentine is used to dissolve the resin to create a varnish. It is one of the possible liquids mentioned in the definition, but it is not the final solution itself.
(c) Oil
Role: An ingredient, specifically a vehicle or binder (like linseed oil).
Function: Oil is used to dissolve the resin (in an oil varnish) and then hardens to form the durable film. It is a component of the varnish, not the varnish itself.
(d) Distemper
Role: A type of paint.
Function: Distemper is a decorative wall coating made from pigment, a binder (like chalk or lime), and water. It is opaque and completely different from a clear, resin-based varnish.
💡 Study Tips for Paints and Varnishes
- Varnish is the final product: Remember that varnish is the complete solution you buy in a can. Turpentine and oil are just ingredients that go into making it.
- Paint Hides, Varnish Reveals: The key difference between paint and varnish is pigment. Paint is opaque and hides the surface. Varnish is transparent and reveals the surface.
- Distemper is Different: Always separate distemper in your mind. It's a water-based, chalky wall paint, unrelated to oil or spirit varnishes.
- Think of the Recipe: Resin is the "flavor concentrate." The solvent (turpentine/alcohol) or vehicle (oil) is the "liquid base." Mix them together, and you get the "drink" (varnish).