Which property of cotton allows it to provide comfort in hot weather?

The property of cotton that allows it to provide comfort in hot weather is its breathability. Cotton fibers are naturally porous and have a good moisture-absorbing capacity. This means that they allow air to circulate freely, which helps to regulate body temperature by providing ventilation. When it gets hot, breathable fabrics like cotton enable sweat to evaporate quickly off the skin, which helps keep the body cool and comfortable. This characteristic makes cotton an ideal choice for warm weather apparel.

While elasticity, heat retention, and low durability are properties associated with cotton, they do not contribute to comfort in hot weather. Elasticity refers to the flexibility of the fabric, which affects fit but not temperature regulation. Heat retention is more characteristic of materials that keep warmth in, which is the opposite of what is desired in hot conditions. Low durability speaks to the longevity of the fabric rather than its comfort level in heat. Hence, breathability stands out as the key property that enhances comfort during warm weather.