Ceramics terminology — classification of clay products Which of the following statements correctly matches common ceramic terms (terra-cotta, earthenware, stoneware, porcelain) with their descriptions?

Introduction / Context:
Ceramic materials are categorized by raw composition and firing regime. For construction and decorative uses, correct terminology aids in selecting suitable products for durability, porosity, and appearance.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Terms under consideration: terra-cotta, earthenware, stoneware, porcelain.
• Focus on typical firing temperature ranges and resulting properties like porosity and translucency.
• Generalized industry definitions apply.

Concept / Approach:
Terra-cotta literally means “baked earth,” commonly low-fired, reddish, porous bodies used for tiles and sculpture. Earthenware is a low-fired, porous clay body, usually needing glaze for impermeability. Stoneware is fired at higher temperatures from refractory clays, producing a dense, vitrified, nonporous body. Porcelain is the finest, with kaolin-rich compositions and high firing that produces a white, thin, semi-transparent and very strong ceramic.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Match “baked earth” with terra-cotta → low-fired, porous architectural elements.Identify earthenware → low-temperature firing, relatively porous core; slow cooling is typical.Stoneware → higher temperature, vitrified, often formulated with refractory clays and grog (crushed pottery).Porcelain → fine, white, thin body with some translucency due to vitrification.All statements align with accepted definitions.

Verification / Alternative check:
Compare water absorption and firing temperature bands: earthenware (low, porous), stoneware (medium-high, dense), porcelain (high, translucent).

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Choosing any single statement ignores the correctness of the others; the comprehensive answer is “All of the above.”

Common Pitfalls:
Confusing terracotta with brick; assuming porcelain’s translucency equals fragility (it is strong in compression); ignoring glaze’s role in sealing earthenware.

Final Answer:
All of the above