The term ____________ is used to indicate the solution of resins or resinous substances prepared either in alcohol, oil or turpentine.
Try it first: pick an option, then read the explanation.
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).