Question

Why are sharp knives more effective than dull knives?

a) Sharp knives exert less pressure.
b) Sharp knives have a larger surface area.
c) Sharp knives reduce friction.
d) Sharp knives concentrate force over a smaller area.

Answer 1

Sharp knives are more effective because they concentrate the force over a smaller area, exerting higher pressure and cutting more effectively.

Step-by-step explanation:

You asked why sharp knives are more effective than dull knives. The reason is that a sharp knife has a smaller surface area at its cutting edge compared to a dull knife. According to physics, pressure is defined as the force per unit area. Therefore, with the same amount of force applied, a sharp knife will exert a higher pressure because the force is concentrated over a smaller area. This allows the sharp knife to cut through material more effectively, which is why option (d) sharp knives concentrate force over a smaller area, is correct.