How does moisture content impact the properties of wood?

Moisture content has a significant impact on the properties of wood, especially concerning its structural integrity and dimensional stability. When the moisture content in wood increases, it leads to an absorption of water, causing the wood fibers to swell. This swelling can result in changes to the wood's dimensions, leading to warping, bending, or cracking as the material attempts to accommodate the increased volume associated with moisture absorption.

Conversely, when wood dries out and loses moisture, it tends to shrink, which can similarly lead to warping or cracking. This makes managing moisture content critical in woodworking and construction, as excessive moisture can severely affect the performance and longevity of wooden structures.

While the other options mention various attributes that could be influenced by moisture, they do not accurately highlight the immediate and significant effects of moisture on wood's dimensional stability like swelling and warping do. These phenomena are essential considerations for both the aesthetic and functional aspects of timber in various applications.