Which term is defined as a substance that penetrates timber fibres to protect wood from borers, wood lice, and fungi?

Which term is defined as a substance that penetrates timber fibres to protect wood from borers, wood lice, and fungi?

• A. Cupping
• B. Density
• C. Creosote
• D. Creep

Answer: (C)

Creosote is a wood preservative that penetrates timber fibers, moving into the wood rather than just sitting on the surface. This deep penetration helps shield the wood from borers, wood lice, and fungi by creating a toxic or hostile environment inside the fibers. That enduring internal protection is what makes creosote the correct term. By contrast, cupping describes warp from moisture, density is simply mass per volume, and creep is long-term deformation under load—none of which capture a substance that infiltrates wood to protect it from pests and rot.

Creosote is a wood preservative that penetrates timber fibers, moving into the wood rather than just sitting on the surface. This deep penetration helps shield the wood from borers, wood lice, and fungi by creating a toxic or hostile environment inside the fibers. That enduring internal protection is what makes creosote the correct term. By contrast, cupping describes warp from moisture, density is simply mass per volume, and creep is long-term deformation under load—none of which capture a substance that infiltrates wood to protect it from pests and rot.