What does the term porous mean?

The term "porous" refers to materials that contain openings or spaces within their structure. This characteristic allows such materials to absorb liquids or gases. When something is described as porous, it implies that it can take in substances through these openings. This quality is significant in various contexts, including the beauty and personal care industry, as it affects how products like nail enhancements, polishes, or treatments interact with the surfaces they are applied to.

The other choices do not accurately capture the essence of "porous." While absorbent materials may be porous, not all porous materials are necessarily designed specifically for absorption. The definition that highlights a material as having openings encompasses this broader understanding without limiting it solely to absorption. Additionally, solid and dense materials are typically non-porous and do not have openings, while fluid-resistant materials are designed to repel liquids, which contradicts the concept of porosity.