What is a matrix in printing technology?

What is a matrix in printing technology?

• A. A type of paper used for prints.
• B. A slab of wood or metal carved with a design, rolled with ink, and transferred to paper or cloth to make multiple copies.
• C. A device used to measure ink density.
• D. A negative film used in photography.

Answer: (B)

In printing, a matrix is the physical form that carries the design to be printed. It is the carved or etched surface—often a slab of wood or a metal plate—that holds ink and transfers the image to paper or cloth when pressed. This allows many copies to be made because the same matrix can be reused. For example, a woodblock carved with a design acts as the matrix: ink is applied to the raised areas and the block is pressed onto paper to produce multiple impressions. It’s not a type of paper, a device for measuring ink density, or a negative film.

In printing, a matrix is the physical form that carries the design to be printed. It is the carved or etched surface—often a slab of wood or a metal plate—that holds ink and transfers the image to paper or cloth when pressed. This allows many copies to be made because the same matrix can be reused. For example, a woodblock carved with a design acts as the matrix: ink is applied to the raised areas and the block is pressed onto paper to produce multiple impressions. It’s not a type of paper, a device for measuring ink density, or a negative film.