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The rough surface or porosity of porcelain is primarily linked to the lack of compression during the forming process. When porcelain is not adequately compressed, air pockets can become trapped within the material. These trapped air bubbles can create inconsistencies in the porcelain's surface, resulting in a rough texture or porous appearance once the porcelain is fired. Proper compression is essential in ensuring that the particles in the porcelain are densely packed, reducing the likelihood of defects.

While other factors such as temperature and material quality can influence the final product, they do not directly cause porosity or surface roughness in the same way that inadequate compression does. For instance, sudden high temperatures can lead to issues such as thermal shock but are less likely to specifically cause surface roughness associated with porosity. Similarly, improper mixing techniques can affect the homogeneity of materials but are more related to overall quality rather than the specific surface texture. Using low-quality materials can also contribute to various defects, but the direct relationship with roughness and porosity is strongest when considering the lack of compression.