Which item is a softwood?

• A. Pine
• B. Oak
• C. Maple
• D. Walnut

Answer: (A)

Softwoods come from conifer trees, which are typically evergreen and reproduce with cones. Pine is a classic example of a conifer, so its wood is categorized as softwood. In contrast, the other options come from deciduous broadleaf trees and are considered hardwoods—oak, maple, and walnut are dense, durable woods commonly used when a sturdier material is needed. The distinction often comes down to the type of tree and its wood structure: softwoods lack the vessels and pores found in hardwoods, making pine generally lighter and easier to cut and shape. So the item that is a softwood is pine.