The most basic function of a table saw is to cut wood. It can make rip cuts (cuts that are parallel to the grain), crosscuts (cuts that are perpendicular to the grain), and miter cuts (cuts that are at an angle).
Jointing
Jointing is the process of creating a flat, straight edge on a piece of wood. A table saw can be used to joint edges by running the wood over the saw blade with the fence set at 90 degrees.
Ripping
Ripping is the process of cutting a piece of wood lengthwise. A table saw can be used to rip boards by running the wood over the saw blade with the fence set at the desired width.
Crosscutting
Crosscutting is the process of cutting a piece of wood across the grain. A table saw can be used to crosscut boards by running the wood over the saw blade with the fence set at 90 degrees.
Miter cutting
Miter cutting is the process of cutting a piece of wood at an angle. A table saw can be used to make miter cuts by setting the fence at the desired angle and then running the wood over the saw blade.
Dado cutting
Dado cutting is the process of creating a groove in a piece of wood. A table saw can be used to make dado cuts by using a dado blade and setting the fence at the desired width of the groove.
Rabbet cutting
Rabbet cutting is the process of creating a shallow recess in the edge of a piece of wood. A table saw can be used to make rabbet cuts by using a rabbeting bit and setting the fence at the desired depth.
In summary, a table saw can be used to cut straight lines, rip wood, crosscut wood, make miter cuts, cut dados, and cut rabbets.