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Fake vs. Real (4/6)

Submitted by kheredia on Tue, 09/10/2019 - 20:46

What is it that distinguishes an artificial plant from genuine? An obvious but time consuming method is to observe the plant throughout the changing seasons, and if it does change color based on the weather, that only confirms that the plant is fake. Another way is to neglect it completely. By abandoning the plant, it must decompose. If it does not rot, then it would be correct to say that the plant is not real. What about more direct and quick approaches? Using any of the five senses can quickly determine whether the plant is real or fake. Smelling is more ambiguous, as not all plants give off a notable scent. Sight can be debated, because many replicas of plants are almost identical to the original. This may even deceive insects enough to settle on top of a fake plant. Thus, using insects as a measure for genuinity is not reliable. Touching or taste, however, are more accurate ways to measure the difference between fake and real. Touching is an immediate confirmation, because artificial plants have a fabric-like feel and are very resilient to bending: They can be bent without breaking. Real plants are not as sturdy. They can be torn easily and leaves are fragile. Genuine plants also have an earthy taste, wheras the taste of a replica may be absent or taste like cloth. In summation, there are various ways to test a plant's authenticity, though some bear quick results and are more valid than others. 

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