What is the primary function of a honey extractor?

The primary function of a honey extractor is to remove honey from the comb without destroying it. This process is critical in beekeeping because an extractor allows for the efficient harvesting of honey while preserving the structure of the honeycomb. By using centrifugal force, an extractor spins the frames of honeycomb, causing the honey to be separated from the wax cells. This technique not only maximizes honey yield but also enables beekeepers to return the comb to the hive for the bees to refill, thus maintaining the health of the hive and ensuring future honey production.

The other options do not align with the primary role of a honey extractor. Collecting pollen from bees involves a different method, as it requires specific traps or pollen collectors. Processing wax for candle making is a separate function entirely, oriented more towards wax production rather than honey extraction. Lastly, while transport of honey to the market is a vital step in the business of beekeeping, it does not relate to the extraction process itself. Each of these alternative functions serves a purpose in beekeeping, but the essence of a honey extractor specifically focuses on the efficient and gentle removal of honey from the comb.