Which material is least likely to be used in modern rocket construction?

Wood is the material least likely to be used in modern rocket construction due to several factors that influence material selection in aerospace applications. Rockets require materials that can withstand extreme conditions, including high pressures, significant temperature fluctuations, and rigorous mechanical stresses.

While wood has been traditionally used in various applications, including early rocketry and model rockets, it lacks the necessary strength-to-weight ratio, thermal stability, and durability that modern aerodynamic designs demand. Advanced materials like carbon fiber, plastic composites, and fiberglass offer superior properties such as lightweight construction, high tensile strength, and resistance to environmental degradation, making them more suitable for the high-performance needs of modern aerospace engineering.

These advanced materials also allow for complex shapes and designs that improve the functionality and efficiency of rockets, which is essential for high-speed travel and the harsh conditions of space. Therefore, while wood might still find limited use in some low-tech or educational rocketry settings, it is not practical or viable for modern rocket construction.