Which power tool is used to remove material from the surface of wood?

The power tool specifically designed to remove material from the surface of wood is a sander. Sanders are equipped with abrasive materials that smooth and shape wood surfaces by removing thin layers. This process not only levels the surface but also prepares the wood for finishing by eliminating imperfections and rough spots.

In woodworking, achieving a smooth finish is crucial, and a sander excels in creating a fine surface over a larger area with speed and efficiency. This makes it preferable for tasks involving the finishing touches on furniture, cabinetry, or other wooden projects, where a smooth surface is essential for aesthetic appeal and subsequent finishing applications.

While a router is used for shaping edges and creating decorative patterns, and a planer is meant for flattening and thicknessing boards, those functions differ from the primary purpose of a sander. Similarly, a chisel, which is a manual tool, is typically used for more detailed and controlled material removal rather than finishing entire surfaces. Therefore, the sander stands out as the correct choice for the specific task of removing material to create a smooth surface on wood.