Study Guide For Pottery Test 1
Clay works otherwise known as pottery may seem like a very simple and easy thing to do, but to your surprise, it is an art which takes time and effort to master. Gauge your knowledge on the subject below.
Questions and Answers
- 1.
A support or frame used when sculpturing clay; usually removed before firing.
- A.
Celadon
- B.
Armature
- C.
Lip
Correct Answer
B. ArmatureExplanation
An armature is a support or frame that is used when sculpting clay. It is typically removed before firing the clay. The armature provides structure and stability to the clay sculpture, allowing the artist to shape and mold the clay more easily. It helps to prevent the clay from collapsing or deforming during the sculpting process. Once the sculpture is complete, the armature is taken out, leaving behind the solid clay form.Rate this question:
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- 2.
A revolving wheel head which sits on a pedestal base. It is turned by hand and used for finishing or decorating pottery.
- A.
Slip trailer
- B.
Kick wheel
- C.
Banding Wheel
Correct Answer
C. Banding WheelExplanation
A banding wheel is a type of pottery tool that consists of a revolving wheel head mounted on a pedestal base. It is operated by hand and is commonly used in pottery for finishing or decorating purposes. Unlike a kick wheel, which is powered by foot, or a slip trailer, which is used for applying slip to pottery, a banding wheel allows the potter to rotate the piece while working on it, providing greater control and precision in the decorative process.Rate this question:
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- 3.
A base for throwing, hand – building, or drying; usually made of plastic, pressboard, plywood, or plaster.
- A.
Lug
- B.
Bat
- C.
Pulling
Correct Answer
B. BatExplanation
A bat is a base that is used for throwing, hand-building, or drying in pottery. It is typically made of materials like plastic, pressboard, plywood, or plaster.Rate this question:
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- 4.
Polishing the surface of leather-hard pot to compact it and produce and maintain a sheen at low firing temperatures. Objects such as a smooth stone or back of a spoon are good burnishing tools.
- A.
Burnishing
- B.
Collaring
- C.
Kick wheel
Correct Answer
A. BurnishingExplanation
Burnishing is the process of polishing the surface of a leather-hard pot to make it more compact and create a shiny appearance. This technique is commonly used to achieve a smooth and glossy finish on pottery. It involves using tools like a smooth stone or the back of a spoon to rub and compress the clay surface, resulting in a polished texture. Burnishing is particularly effective at low firing temperatures and helps to enhance the overall aesthetic appeal of the pottery.Rate this question:
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- 5.
A category of green, gray, or blue-gray glazes for stoneware and porcelain; developed in China and Korea.
- A.
Celadon
- B.
Extruding
- C.
Porosity
Correct Answer
A. CeladonExplanation
Celadon is the correct answer because it is a category of glazes that are green, gray, or blue-gray in color, and are used for stoneware and porcelain. These glazes were developed in China and Korea. The other options, extruding and porosity, do not relate to the description of the glazes mentioned in the question.Rate this question:
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- 6.
The process of applying pressure to a lump of clay on a spinning wheel head to position it for even rotation.
- A.
Firing
- B.
Coning
- C.
Centering
Correct Answer
C. CenteringExplanation
Centering is the correct answer because it refers to the process of applying pressure to a lump of clay on a spinning wheel head in order to position it for even rotation. This technique is essential in pottery making as it allows the clay to be shaped symmetrically and prevents it from wobbling or becoming misaligned during the spinning process.Rate this question:
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- 7.
The tendency of matter to “flee from the center” when spun.
- A.
Centrifugal force
- B.
Celadon
- C.
Extruding
Correct Answer
A. Centrifugal forceExplanation
Centrifugal force is the tendency of matter to "flee from the center" when spun. When an object or substance is rotating, the centrifugal force causes it to move away from the center of rotation. This force is experienced by objects or particles that are in motion in a rotating frame of reference. It is important to note that centrifugal force is not a true force, but rather a perceived force due to inertia.Rate this question:
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- 8.
Squeezing the upper part of a thrown from as it rotates on the wheel, in order to decrease the size of its diameter.
- A.
Saggar
- B.
Levigation
- C.
Collaring
Correct Answer
C. CollaringExplanation
Collaring refers to the process of squeezing the upper part of a thrown form as it rotates on the wheel to decrease the size of its diameter. This technique is commonly used in pottery to create narrower necks or to refine the shape of the vessel. Saggar and levigation are unrelated terms in pottery.Rate this question:
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- 9.
Part of the centering process; raising clay to form a cone as it spins on the wheel head.
- A.
Inlay
- B.
Coning
- C.
Neck
Correct Answer
B. ConingExplanation
Coning is the process of raising clay to form a cone shape as it spins on the wheel head during centering. This technique helps to create a symmetrical and balanced form, as well as remove any air bubbles or imperfections from the clay. By coning the clay, the potter can prepare it for further shaping and molding, ensuring a smooth and even surface.Rate this question:
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- 10.
The result of successfully centering clay on the wheel. An opened dome is necessary to begin throwing vessels, pots, and plates.
- A.
Dome
- B.
Drape mold
- C.
Extruding
Correct Answer
A. DomeExplanation
The term "dome" refers to the shape that is created when clay is successfully centered on the wheel. This is an essential step in the process of throwing vessels, pots, and plates. The dome shape allows the clay to be evenly distributed and easily manipulated into the desired form. Without achieving a dome shape, it would be difficult to create symmetrical and balanced ceramic pieces.Rate this question:
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- 11.
A wheel powered by the potter’s foot rather than by electricity.
- A.
Kick wheel
- B.
Extruding
- C.
Lug
Correct Answer
A. Kick wheelExplanation
A wheel powered by the potter's foot rather than by electricity is commonly known as a kick wheel. This type of wheel is operated by the potter using their foot to kick or push the wheel in order to rotate it. It is a traditional and manual method of powering the wheel, often preferred by potters who enjoy the control and connection with the clay that comes with using their own physical force.Rate this question:
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- 12.
The rim opening of a pot.
- A.
Lug
- B.
Kiln Wash
- C.
Lip
Correct Answer
C. LipExplanation
The rim opening of a pot is referred to as the lip. It is the uppermost edge of the pot that provides a smooth and rounded surface for drinking or pouring liquids. The lip is important for ensuring a comfortable and controlled grip while handling the pot, as well as preventing any leakage or spillage when pouring liquids.Rate this question:
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- 13.
A support that holds a clay slab in a certain shape until it stiffens.
- A.
Reduction
- B.
Opening the dome
- C.
Drape mold
Correct Answer
C. Drape moldExplanation
A drape mold is a support that holds a clay slab in a certain shape until it stiffens. This allows the clay to take on the desired form and prevents it from sagging or collapsing while it dries. Reduction refers to the firing process in which oxygen is limited to create specific colors and effects on the clay. Opening the dome does not relate to the given description. Therefore, the correct answer is drape mold.Rate this question:
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- 14.
A way of improving the workability of clay by reforming the mixture to make it homogeneous and even in texture while eliminating air bubbles.
- A.
Trimming
- B.
Wedging
- C.
Template
Correct Answer
B. WedgingExplanation
Wedging is the correct answer because it refers to the process of improving the workability of clay by reforming the mixture. It involves kneading and pounding the clay to make it homogeneous and even in texture, while also eliminating any air bubbles that may be present. This process is commonly used in pottery to prepare the clay for shaping and molding. Trimming and template are not related to improving the workability of clay in this context.Rate this question:
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- 15.
Changes in a clay form usually resulting from uneven thickness of the walls, uneven drying, or stresses during firing caused by poor support or uneven heat.
- A.
Saggar
- B.
Slip trailer
- C.
Warping
Correct Answer
C. WarpingExplanation
Warping is the correct answer because it refers to changes in a clay form that result from various factors such as uneven thickness of the walls, uneven drying, or stresses during firing caused by poor support or uneven heat. Warping can cause the clay to bend, twist, or distort, leading to an uneven or distorted final shape.Rate this question:
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- 16.
A container made from fireproof material that protects ware from combustion gases during firing. It is also used to hold ware and fuming materials for separate reduction during firing.
- A.
Saggar
- B.
Reduction
- C.
Porosity
Correct Answer
A. SaggarExplanation
A saggar is a container made from fireproof material that is used to protect ware from combustion gases during firing. It is also used to hold ware and fuming materials for separate reduction during firing.Rate this question:
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- 17.
The part of a vessel between lip and shoulder.
- A.
Lug
- B.
Trimming
- C.
Neck
Correct Answer
C. NeckExplanation
The term "neck" refers to the part of a vessel between the lip and shoulder. This is the area where the vessel narrows down from the opening (lip) to the widest point (shoulder). It is commonly used to describe the shape or design of certain vessels, such as bottles or jars.Rate this question:
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- 18.
A pattern used to shape the profile of a piece.
- A.
Reduction
- B.
Template
- C.
Vitrification
Correct Answer
B. TemplateExplanation
A template is a pattern or guide that is used to shape the profile of a piece. It helps in creating consistent and accurate shapes by providing a reference for cutting or shaping materials. Reduction and vitrification are unrelated to shaping profiles and do not involve the use of patterns or templates.Rate this question:
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- 19.
Heating pottery or clay sculpture to a temperature high enough to render it hard and durable.
- A.
Pit firing
- B.
Reduction
- C.
Firing
Correct Answer
C. FiringExplanation
Firing refers to the process of heating pottery or clay sculpture to a high temperature in order to make it hard and durable. This process is essential in pottery and sculpture making as it transforms the raw clay into a solid and permanent form. Pit firing and reduction are specific techniques or variations within the firing process, but the general term that encompasses all types of heating is firing.Rate this question:
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- 20.
A mixture of Kaolin, flint and water used to coat kiln shelves to protect them during firing.
- A.
Kiln Wash
- B.
Porosity
- C.
Pulling
Correct Answer
A. Kiln WashExplanation
Kiln wash is a mixture of Kaolin, flint, and water that is used to coat kiln shelves in order to protect them during firing. Kiln shelves are prone to damage and sticking during the firing process, and kiln wash acts as a barrier between the shelves and the ceramic pieces being fired. It prevents the pieces from sticking to the shelves and also helps to protect the shelves from the high temperatures and chemicals involved in the firing process.Rate this question:
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- 21.
The process of shaping plastic clay on the potter’s wheel.
- A.
Throwing
- B.
Pulling
- C.
Pit firing
Correct Answer
A. ThrowingExplanation
Throwing is the correct answer because it refers to the process of shaping plastic clay on the potter's wheel. This technique involves spinning the wheel while using the hands to shape and mold the clay into various forms such as bowls, plates, or vases. It requires skill and precision to control the speed and pressure applied to the clay, resulting in the desired shape and form. Throwing is a fundamental technique used by potters to create functional and decorative pottery.Rate this question:
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- 22.
When clay fuses and turns to a fluid glasslike substance during the firing.
- A.
Melting pot
- B.
Kick wheel
- C.
Extruding
Correct Answer
A. Melting potExplanation
When clay is fired, it goes through a process called vitrification, where it becomes heated to a point where it fuses and turns into a glass-like substance. This transformation occurs in a melting pot, which is specifically designed to reach high temperatures and melt the clay. A melting pot is used in ceramics to create a fluid and molten state of the clay, allowing it to be shaped and molded into desired forms. Therefore, the correct answer is "Melting pot".Rate this question:
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- 23.
A device, such as rubber syringe or tube, used to apply lines of slip on clay as decoration.
- A.
Centrifugal force
- B.
Drape mold
- C.
Slip trailer
Correct Answer
C. Slip trailerExplanation
A slip trailer is a device used to apply lines of slip, which is a liquid clay mixture, onto clay as a form of decoration. This tool allows for precise and controlled application of slip, creating intricate designs and patterns on the surface of the clay.Rate this question:
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- 24.
A firing in there is insufficient air in the kiln for complete combustion. The metal oxides in the clay body and glaze release oxygen because there is not enough present in the atmosphere. This changes the color of the clay body and glaze.
- A.
Template
- B.
Reduction
- C.
Coning
Correct Answer
B. ReductionExplanation
The given explanation suggests that the firing process is not providing enough air in the kiln for complete combustion. As a result, the metal oxides in the clay body and glaze release oxygen because there is not enough present in the atmosphere. This lack of oxygen leads to a reduction reaction, which changes the color of the clay body and glaze. Therefore, the correct answer is Reduction.Rate this question:
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- 25.
The process of shaping clay by forcing through a die.
- A.
Pit firing
- B.
Extruding
- C.
Throwing
Correct Answer
B. ExtrudingExplanation
Extruding is the correct answer because it refers to the process of shaping clay by forcing it through a die. This technique involves pushing the clay through a hollow tube, resulting in a consistent shape and size. Pit firing, on the other hand, is a method of firing clay in a hole or pit dug in the ground, while throwing involves shaping clay on a potter's wheel by hand.Rate this question:
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- 26.
Handle – like projection on the side of pot .
- A.
Lug
- B.
Levigation
- C.
Reduction
Correct Answer
A. LugExplanation
A handle is a like a projection on the side of a pot that allows for easy gripping and lifting. A lug, on the other hand, refers specifically to a handle that is attached to the side of a pot or container. It is often used to hang or suspend the pot. Therefore, the correct answer is "Lug" because it directly relates to the given description of a handle-like projection on the side of a pot.Rate this question:
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- 27.
Stroking plastic clay with the hand to shape handles for pot.
- A.
Banding Wheel
- B.
Collaring
- C.
Pulling
Correct Answer
C. PullingExplanation
Pulling is the correct answer because it refers to the technique of shaping handles for pots by stroking plastic clay with the hand. This technique involves pulling and stretching the clay to create the desired handle shape. The other options, banding wheel and collaring, do not involve the same hand-stroking technique for shaping handles.Rate this question:
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- 28.
The stage during firing when a clay or glaze lose its porosity and transforms into a hard, nonabsorbent, glasslike state.
- A.
Levigation
- B.
Vitrification
- C.
Neck
Correct Answer
B. VitrificationExplanation
Vitrification refers to the stage during firing when a clay or glaze loses its porosity and transforms into a hard, nonabsorbent, glasslike state. This process occurs when the temperature reaches a certain point, causing the clay or glaze particles to melt and fuse together, creating a dense and impermeable surface. Vitrification is an important step in pottery and ceramics, as it enhances the durability and water resistance of the finished piece.Rate this question:
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- 29.
The amount of empty space in the structure of the fired clay that makes it capable of absorbing liquids.
- A.
Porosity
- B.
Reduction
- C.
Throwing
Correct Answer
A. PorosityExplanation
Porosity refers to the amount of empty space within the structure of fired clay that allows it to absorb liquids. This empty space is created during the firing process when water and other volatile materials evaporate, leaving behind small pockets or voids. The higher the porosity of the clay, the more liquid it can absorb. This property is important in ceramics and pottery as it determines the clay's ability to hold glazes, water, or other substances.Rate this question:
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- 30.
The process of refining a leather – hard shape with cutting tools.
- A.
Saggar
- B.
Trimming
- C.
Kiln Wash
Correct Answer
B. TrimmingExplanation
Trimming is the correct answer because it refers to the process of refining a leather-hard shape with cutting tools. Trimming involves carefully removing excess clay or material from the shape to create smooth edges, refine details, and achieve the desired form. This process is commonly used in pottery and ceramics to achieve a clean and finished look for the final product.Rate this question:
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- 31.
A method of refining clay in water where the heavy particles sink to the bottom and smaller particles are skimmed off the top.
- A.
Levigation
- B.
Extruding
- C.
Warping
Correct Answer
A. LevigationExplanation
Levigation is the correct answer because it refers to the process of refining clay in water by allowing the heavy particles to sink to the bottom while removing the smaller particles from the top. This method helps to separate impurities and achieve a more purified form of clay. Extruding and warping are not relevant to the given description and do not involve the refining of clay in water.Rate this question:
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- 32.
To fill an incised or impressed area with contrasting colored clay.
- A.
Lug
- B.
Inlay
- C.
Opening the dome
Correct Answer
B. InlayExplanation
Inlay is the correct answer because it involves filling an incised or impressed area with contrasting colored clay. This technique is commonly used in pottery and ceramics to create decorative patterns or designs by adding a different colored clay into the recessed areas. Inlay allows for a visually striking contrast between the base clay and the inlaid clay, enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal of the piece.Rate this question:
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- 33.
Heating pottery or clay sculpture to a temperature high enough to render it hard and durable.
- A.
Firing
- B.
Reduction
- C.
Trimming
Correct Answer
A. FiringExplanation
Firing refers to the process of heating pottery or clay sculpture to a high temperature in order to make it hard and durable. This process involves subjecting the clay to intense heat in a kiln, causing the clay particles to fuse together and form a solid structure. Firing is an essential step in pottery making as it transforms the raw clay into a finished, usable piece of art.Rate this question:
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