B.F. Bachelor of Forestry Wood Science and Technology

Question 1

What is 'specific gravity' of wood and why is it important?

Accepted Answer

The ratio of wood density to the density of water, indicating strength and suitability for end uses

Answer

Specific gravity is the ratio of oven-dry wood mass to the mass of water displaced, and it is the best single predictor of most wood mechanical properties.

Question 2

What is 'heartwood' in a tree stem?

Accepted Answer

The inner, non-living core of xylem that no longer conducts water

Answer

Heartwood is the inner, non-conductive core of xylem that has undergone chemical changes, often making it more durable and darker than sapwood.

Question 3

What causes wood to shrink and swell?

Accepted Answer

Changes in moisture content below the fiber saturation point

Answer

Wood shrinks as it loses moisture below the fiber saturation point and swells as it absorbs moisture, because water molecules occupy space within cell walls.

Question 4

What is 'lumber grading' used for in the wood products industry?

Accepted Answer

Classifying sawn lumber by quality characteristics to determine appropriate end uses

Answer

Lumber grading classifies sawn wood by defects, strength, and appearance characteristics to match lumber quality to appropriate structural or aesthetic end uses.

Question 5

Which component of wood is primarily responsible for its structural strength?

Accepted Answer

Cellulose microfibrils

Answer

Cellulose microfibrils provide the primary structural reinforcement in wood cell walls, giving wood its tensile strength and stiffness.

B.F. Bachelor of Forestry Practice Test

B.F. Bachelor of Forestry Practice Test

B.F. Bachelor of Forestry Wood Science and Technology