Texes Art EC-12 Practice Exam

Which type of firing is used to achieve a smooth and shiny surface on porcelain?

1. Low temperature firing

2. High temperature firing

3. Open flame firing

4. Cold firing

The correct answer is: High temperature firing

High temperature firing is used to achieve a smooth and shiny surface on porcelain due to the unique properties of the materials involved. When porcelain is fired at high temperatures, typically between 1200°C to 1400°C (2192°F to 2552°F), the particles of the clay and the glaze melt and fuse together, creating a glass-like surface. This process not only strengthens the porcelain but also enhances its translucence and finish. The high temperatures enable the formation of a vitrified structure, which contributes to both durability and aesthetic qualities such as glossiness. In contrast, lower temperature firings do not reach the necessary thresholds for glaze maturation and often result in a dull or uneven surface. Additionally, open flame firing is not suitable for porcelain, as it typically leads to uneven heating and unpredictable outcomes. Cold firing, on the other hand, does not use high temperatures to cure the clay, leading to a completely different and usually less desirable texture and finish. Thus, high temperature firing is essential for creating the smooth and shiny surface characteristic of quality porcelain.