Final answer:
A small fraction of wooden objects survive due to biodegradation, vulnerability to insects, water damage, and fire. Preservation conditions, like moisture and temperature control, and human choices in building materials also contribute to the survival rate of wood items over time all options are correct.
Step-by-step explanation:
We can assume that only a small fraction of the wooden objects created over time still survive for several reasons. Firstly, wood is an organic material and is naturally biodegradable, meaning it breaks down over time, especially if not preserved under specific conditions.
Factors like moisture and temperature significantly influence this process. Additionally, wood is susceptible to insects such as termites which can consume and weaken the structure of wood, causing it to fall apart. Water exposure can also lead to rot and degradation, and wood is highly susceptible to fire, which can quickly destroy wooden objects.
Beyond these natural processes, human factors also play a role. For instance, the choice of building materials in harsh climates, such as those in the Deep South, led to the use of Cypress wood, which is more resistant to rot and insects, unlike Pine, which was less durable yet widely used due to its lower cost. As a result, many structures built with less durable materials have not survived. Additionally, when organic artifacts are suddenly exposed to air after being sealed away, such as wooden boats found at the bottom of rivers or lakes, they can degrade quickly once no longer in an anaerobic environment.