Cork
Cork is a natural material that is harvested from the bark of cork oak trees (Quercus suber). It is a versatile and sustainable material that has many uses, including insulation, flooring, and as a stopper for wine bottles.
Structure of Cork
Cork is composed of a honeycomb-like structure of cells, called suberin, that are filled with air. This structure gives cork its unique properties, including its light weight, buoyancy, and ability to compress and expand without damage.
Harvesting Cork
Cork is harvested from the outer bark of cork oak trees. The bark is carefully removed from the tree in a process called "stripping", which does not harm the tree. After harvesting, the cork bark regenerates, making cork a renewable resource.
Uses of Cork
Cork has a wide range of uses, including:
- Wine stoppers
- Flooring
- Insulation
- Soundproofing
- Crafts and design
Study Guide Questions
- What is the composition of cork?
- How is cork harvested from cork oak trees?
- List three uses of cork.
- What is the unique structure of cork that gives it its special properties?
◂Biology Worksheets and Study Guides High School. Cell Reproduction
Worksheet/Answer key
Cell Reproduction 
Worksheet/Answer key
Cell Reproduction Worksheet/Answer key
Cell Reproduction Worksheet/Answer key
Cell Reproduction
Worksheet/Answer keyWorksheet/Answer keyWorksheet/Answer keyThe resources above cover the following skills:
LIFE SCIENCE (NGSS)
From Molecules to Organisms: Structures and Processes
Students who demonstrate understanding can:
Construct an explanation based on evidence for how the structure of DNA determines the structure of proteins which carry out the essential functions of life through systems of specialized cells.
Use a model to illustrate the role of cellular division (mitosis) and differentiation in producing and maintaining complex organisms.
Construct and revise an explanation based on evidence for how carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen from sugar molecules may combine with other elements to form amino acids and/or other large carbon-based molecules.
Heredity: Inheritance and Variation of Traits
Students who demonstrate understanding can:
Ask questions to clarify relationships about the role of DNA and chromosomes in coding the instructions for characteristic traits passed from parents to offspring.
Make and defend a claim based on evidence that inheritable genetic variations may result from: (1) new genetic combinations through meiosis, (2) viable errors occurring during replication, and/or (3) mutations caused by environmental factors.