Which man made fibre is commonly known as artificial silk due to its silk like appearance and texture?

Introduction / Context:
Textile science distinguishes between natural fibres such as cotton, wool and silk, and man made fibres such as nylon, rayon and polyester. Some synthetic or semi synthetic fibres resemble natural ones in appearance and feel. This question asks which man made fibre is popularly called artificial silk because it looks and drapes in a way similar to real silk. This is a common topic in general science and home science sections.

Given Data / Assumptions:

- We are dealing with man made fibres used in textiles.
- The key clue is that the fibre is called artificial silk.
- Options include Nylon, Rayon, Polyester and Acrylic.
- Only one of these is widely known by this nickname in standard textbooks.

Concept / Approach:
Rayon is a semi synthetic fibre made from regenerated cellulose derived from wood pulp. It has a smooth, shiny appearance and good drape, making it resemble natural silk in many ways. Because of this, it is often called artificial silk or synthetic silk. Nylon, polyester and acrylic are fully synthetic fibres produced from petrochemicals, and while they are useful, they are not commonly referred to as artificial silk in school level materials.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Identify the man made fibres listed in the options and recall their common uses.Step 2: Remember that rayon is made from cellulose and was one of the first man made fibres used as a silk substitute.Step 3: Note that rayon fabrics often have shine and drape similar to silk, which led to the name artificial silk.Step 4: Recognise that nylon is used in stockings and ropes, polyester in many garments and acrylic in wool like fabrics, but they are not typically described as artificial silk in basic texts.Step 5: Conclude that rayon is the correct answer.

Verification / Alternative check:
Many basic science textbooks clearly state that rayon is known as artificial silk. They often include pictures of rayon saris and dresses that look like silk but are more affordable. Checking any introductory chapter on synthetic fibres reinforces this association, while nylon, polyester and acrylic are discussed for different properties, such as strength, wrinkle resistance or wool like feel.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Nylon: Although it is a strong and elastic synthetic fibre, it is best known for use in ropes, parachutes and stockings. It is not widely called artificial silk in textbooks.
Polyester: This synthetic fibre is valued for its durability and wrinkle resistance. It is used in many garments but does not carry the common name artificial silk.
Acrylic: Acrylic fibres are used as a substitute for wool in sweaters and blankets and are not associated with a silk like appearance.

Common Pitfalls:
Students sometimes confuse rayon with nylon because both are man made, but rayon is semi synthetic and is specifically described as artificial silk in exam oriented material. To avoid confusion, remember that rayon begins with a letter similar to the word regal and is often used in elegant flowing garments, making it easy to link with silk like appearance.

Final Answer:
The man made fibre commonly known as artificial silk is Rayon.