Question

Which of the following is the hardest wood?

• A. Teak
• B. Thorny Acacia
• C. Mango
• D. Rosewood

Hint:

Wood hardness is generally related to its density. Dense, heavy woods like Rosewood, Ebony, and Ironwood are typically much harder than lighter woods like Pine or Mango. Remember key examples of very hard woods for general knowledge questions.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Step 1: Understanding the Question:
The question asks to identify the hardest wood from the given list of four types of wood.
Step 2: Key Formula or Approach:
The hardness of wood is a physical property scientifically measured using the Janka hardness test. The test measures the force required to embed a 0.444-inch steel ball to half its diameter into the wood. A higher Janka rating indicates harder wood. This question tests general knowledge about the properties of these common woods.
Step 3: Detailed Explanation:
Let's compare the typical hardness of the woods listed:
- Mango: This is a relatively soft hardwood, with a Janka rating of about 1,070 lbf (pounds-force). It is not known for its hardness.
- Teak: Teak is known for its durability and water resistance, not primarily its hardness. Its Janka rating is around 1,000-1,155 lbf.
- Thorny Acacia (Babul): This is a very hard and durable wood, with a Janka rating often exceeding 1,700 lbf, making it significantly harder than Teak and Mango.
- Rosewood (Dalbergia species): This is a category of very dense and hard tropical hardwoods. For example, Indian Rosewood (Sheesham) has a Janka rating of around 1,780 lbf, and other species like Brazilian Rosewood can be even harder (over 2,700 lbf).
Comparing the options, Rosewood species are generally among the hardest and densest woods available, typically rating higher on the Janka scale than Teak, Mango, and most common Acacia species.
Step 4: Final Answer:
Among the given choices, Rosewood is the hardest. This corresponds to option (D).