What defect is commonly associated with white oak due to slow growth?

• A. Pitch pockets
• B. Checks along growth rings
• C. Rise in resin canals
• D. Mineral streaks

Answer: (D)

Slow growth affects how minerals get incorporated into the wood as the tree forms. In white oak, when growth is slow, mineral-rich fluids can precipitate and concentrate along the developing growth rings, creating visible mineral streaks. These streaks appear as dark lines or patches that run with the growth rings and are a cosmetic defect that can affect grade.

Pitch pockets are resin-filled pockets more typical of resinous softwoods. Checks along growth rings are cracks that occur from drying or stress rather than a direct result of slow growth, and resin canals are features associated with resin production in some species, not a common defect pattern in white oak. So mineral streaks best fit the defect commonly associated with slow growth in white oak.