What is this close-up picture? (WotsThat: Hardwood end grain)

Question

What object is shown in this zoomed-in close-up photo?

GlaucousRift · Accepted Answer

Hardwood end grain. Hardwood End Grain Woodworkers actually prefer end grain surfaces for cutting boards and butcher blocks because the wood fibers are arranged vertically like tiny straws—knife blades slip between them instead of crushing across the grain, which means your knives stay sharper way longer and the board self-heals as the fibers spring back. It's the complete opposite of what most people assume!

Answer: Hardwood end grain

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