What is the primary purpose of sanding wood before applying a finish?

Sanding wood before applying a finish is primarily done to smooth the surface, which contributes significantly to achieving better adhesion of the finish. A smooth surface allows the finish to evenly adhere to the wood, reducing the likelihood of imperfections such as bubbling or uneven application. When the wood is sanded, it opens up the grain and creates a texture that allows the finish to penetrate and bind more effectively, resulting in a more durable and aesthetically pleasing final appearance.

While removing dust particles is also important, it is typically a step that follows sanding to ensure the surface is free from contaminants before finishing. Creating a color contrast and preparing for cutting do not align with the primary purpose of sanding, as those processes pertain to different aspects of wood finishing and working with wood.