What is a common tool for sanding wood surfaces?

The orbital sander is a widely used tool for sanding wood surfaces because it provides a smooth finish with minimal effort. This tool utilizes a circular sanding pad that moves in an orbiting motion, which reduces the risk of leaving swirl marks on the wood. Its design allows for effective sanding of both flat surfaces and contoured areas, making it versatile for various woodworking projects.

While there are other sanding tools available, such as hand sanders and belt sanders, each with its own specific advantages, the orbital sander is particularly favored for its ease of use and the fine finish it achieves. Hand sanders are more manual and labor-intensive, while belt sanders are better suited for removing a lot of material quickly, which might not be necessary for all finishing tasks. A table saw, on the other hand, is primarily designed for cutting wood rather than sanding, making it an unsuitable choice for this specific task.