Question

Which wood-species statement is true?

a. Hardwoods are always harder than softwoods
b. Softwoods typically come from broad-leafed trees.
c. Softwoods have a simple and uniform microstructure.
d. Softwoods have vessel cell elements
e. Tamarack is a hardwood.

Answer 1

Softwoods, which include trees like tamarack, have a simple and uniform microstructure, making statement c true. Boreal forests are mainly composed of coniferous trees, making the statement about them being dominated by deciduous trees false.

Step-by-step explanation:

Softwoods have a simple and uniform microstructure. Softwoods generally come from coniferous trees, have uniform cells called tracheids responsible for water transport, and lack vessel cells. The features of these tracheids aid in water translocation to the tops of tall trees, even against gravity.

To ensure that a wood product like flooring has been harvested sustainably or legally, look for the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certification. The wood most likely to be legally harvested in the given choices would be 'b. bird-eye maple from Vermont with a FSC certificate.' This is because the FSC certification ensures that the wood meets certain environmental, economic, and social standards, indicating sustainable and legal harvesting practices.