Which of the following woods is a hardwood?

Birch is classified as a hardwood because it comes from deciduous trees, which lose their leaves annually. Hardwoods typically have a denser structure compared to softwoods, which makes them suitable for furniture, cabinetry, and flooring due to their durability and strength. Birch, in particular, is known for its fine grain and ability to be stained well, making it a popular choice in woodworking and design projects.

In contrast, the other options consist of softwoods, which generally come from coniferous trees and have a lighter, less dense composition. Pine and fir, for instance, are commonly used in construction and are easier to work with but lack the same durability as hardwoods like birch. Cedar, while also valued for its aromatic properties and resistance to decay, falls into the softwood category as well. This distinction between hardwoods and softwoods is essential in understanding the applications and characteristics of various types of wood.