The weight of any given piece of wood is determined (1) by the wood substance—this is always the same; (2) by the amount of water enclosed in its cells—this varies.
Some kinds of woods are heavier than others similarly seasoned because they contain more wood substance in a given volume.
Weight of wood is an important quality. To a large extent, strength is measured by weight; a heavy piece of oak will be stronger than a light one of the same species.
Lightness, strength and stiffness are properties which recommend wood for different uses.
119. Other Properties.
—Strength, elasticity, hardness, toughness and cleavability as applied to timber, have their usual meaning.
120. Grain.
—Wood fibers generally extend parallel to the axis of the trunk or branch which they form. In this case the wood is said to be straight grained.
