Final answer:
Under a microscope, synthetic fibers like microfibers differ from natural fibers in terms of their shape, size, composition, and manufacturing process.
Step-by-step explanation:
When viewed under a microscope, synthetic fibers differ from natural fibers in several ways:
Shape and Size: Synthetic fibers, such as microfibers, are much finer and have a smaller diameter compared to natural fibers. For example, microfibers have a diameter of less than ten micrometers, which is smaller than the diameter of a strand of silk.
Composition: Synthetic fibers are made from polymers like polyesters and polyamides, while natural fibers are composed of biological polymers like cellulose or proteins.
Manufacturing Process: Synthetic fibers require multistep processes, including heating precursor polymers, whereas natural fibers are obtained directly from plants or animals.