What process can significantly affect the texture and appearance of cotton fibers?

The process that can significantly affect the texture and appearance of cotton fibers is bleaching. Bleaching involves the use of chemicals to remove color from the fibers, leading to a lighter, more uniform appearance. This process not only alters the visual characteristics of the cotton but can also impact the softness and feel of the fibers. By removing natural pigments, bleaching can enhance the brightness of the cotton, making it more appealing for various textile applications.

Other processes, such as spinning, weaving, and harvesting, play different roles in the production and preparation of cotton textiles. Spinning primarily involves twisting fibers together to create yarn, which does not necessarily change the appearance of the individual fibers. Weaving is the methodology for interlacing yarns to produce fabric but does not fundamentally alter the characteristics of the cotton itself. Harvesting pertains to the collection of cotton from the fields, which, while crucial, does not directly affect the texture or appearance of the cotton fibers themselves after they are processed.