Which wood joint is a mortise and tenon joint?

Which wood joint is a mortise and tenon joint?

• A. Butt
• B. Dowel
• C. Mortise and tenon
• D. Half lap

Answer: (C)

The main idea is how two pieces are locked together: a projection on one piece fits into a matching cavity in the other. A mortise and tenon joint uses a tenon (a tongue-like projection) on one piece that fits neatly into a mortise (a hole or socket) cut into the other piece. This interlocking shape creates a strong, stable connection, often used in furniture and framing, and can be reinforced with glue or other fasteners for extra strength. Other joints work differently: a butt joint just butts ends together, a dowel joint uses pins through holes to align pieces, and a half-lap removes material from each piece so they overlap flatly. The mortise and tenon setup specifically achieves that projection‑into‑cavity interlock, so it’s the correct one.

The main idea is how two pieces are locked together: a projection on one piece fits into a matching cavity in the other. A mortise and tenon joint uses a tenon (a tongue-like projection) on one piece that fits neatly into a mortise (a hole or socket) cut into the other piece. This interlocking shape creates a strong, stable connection, often used in furniture and framing, and can be reinforced with glue or other fasteners for extra strength.

Other joints work differently: a butt joint just butts ends together, a dowel joint uses pins through holes to align pieces, and a half-lap removes material from each piece so they overlap flatly. The mortise and tenon setup specifically achieves that projection‑into‑cavity interlock, so it’s the correct one.