Which joint is commonly used to connect two pieces of wood at a right angle?

The butt joint is commonly used to connect two pieces of wood at a right angle due to its simplicity and ease of construction. In a butt joint, one piece of wood is simply placed against the end of another piece, allowing for a straightforward connection without any intricate shaping or cutting of the wood. This type of joint is particularly effective when the strength of the connection is not a primary concern, or when additional reinforcement (like screws, nails, or glue) can be applied to secure the joint.

The other joints mentioned serve different purposes. A lap joint involves overlapping two pieces of wood, which can create a stronger connection but does not typically form a right angle without additional shaping. A dado joint is used to fit one piece of wood into a slot in another, primarily for shelving or cabinetry, and does not create a simple right-angle connection. A rabbet joint also involves a notch cut into the edge of one piece of wood to allow another piece to fit in, often used for frames or cabinets but again not a straightforward right-angle connection.

Thus, the butt joint’s straightforward approach makes it the preferred choice for achieving a right angle in woodworking projects.