Final answer:
Glass and chinaware are packed with straw to protect them from breakage due to their fragility. Straw acts as a cushion, absorbing shocks and keeping the items in place during transport or storage. This method is similar to modern practices using materials like foam packaging peanuts for protection.
Step-by-step explanation:
The reason why glass and chinaware are packed with straw during transportation or storage is to prevent breakage. Both materials are extremely fragile and prone to shatter upon impact. Straw acts as a cushioning material that absorbs shocks and vibrations, which could otherwise lead to cracks or complete breakage of the delicate items. Historically, straw has been widely available and inexpensive, making it an ideal choice for packing and protecting fragile goods.
Moreover, straw is quite effective in holding the items in place, preventing them from colliding with one another or with the walls of the container. Items like wine glasses, which can be set into resonance from a simple touch, showcase the delicate nature of glassware and its propensity to damage. For antiques and items of historical significance, such as a blown glass urn from ancient Rome, the need for protective packaging is even greater to preserve these rare artifacts for future generations.
It's essential to use materials like straw for packing, similar to the use of foam packaging peanuts or egg cartons in more modern applications, where buffered protection is required to ensure the safe transport and storage of fragile items. While the packing material may differ, the objective remains consistent: to shield delicate materials from the potential harm they might encounter during handling.