Which of the following is NOT listed as a factor influencing maple sapwood color?

• A. Geographic origin
• B. Season of the year
• C. Length of log storage
• D. Processing variables

Answer: (A)

Maple sapwood color is driven by chemical changes that happen after sap is collected and during processing, not by where the tree grew. The season of the year changes sap chemistry, so early-season sap tends to be lighter while late-season sap can darken due to higher extractives and phenolics that darken with heating. If logs are stored before processing, oxidation and browning can occur, darkening the sapwood as it sits and then is worked on. Processing variables—how the sap is heated, how long it’s heated, exposure to air, interactions with metals, filtration, and finishing steps—affect color by promoting oxidative and other browning reactions. Geographic origin isn’t a factor in this context, so it doesn’t influence maple sapwood color the way season, storage length, and processing do.