Which of the following is NOT a defect found in wood?

Moisture pockets are not considered a defect in wood; rather, they are the result of the natural characteristics of wood as it absorbs and releases moisture from its environment. Unlike knots, checks, and splits, which are structural issues that can compromise the integrity and strength of the wood, moisture pockets do not directly affect the wood's physical properties or usability. Knots are imperfections that arise from the growth of branches; checks are small cracks that develop from drying; splits are larger separations along the grain. Therefore, while moisture content is crucial for the wood's overall condition, moisture pockets themselves do not qualify as defects in the same way the other options do.