SubjectCover

Question 38 of 279 in Solids, Liquids and Gases

Pressure in liquids and gases

2 marks · Easy

Explain why a sharp knife cuts more easily than a blunt one, using ideas about pressure.

Work this out on paper, then compare with the answer and worked solution below. With a free account you can submit written answers for marking.

Show answer

A sharp knife has a smaller area in contact with the object, so for the same force, it produces a higher pressure, making cutting easier.

Show mark scheme and worked solution

Marking points

B1 · 1 mark · Mentions smaller area gives greater pressure.

B2 · 1 mark · Links increased pressure to easier cutting/action.

Worked solution

A sharp knife has a small surface area, so when the same force is applied, the pressure is higher. The higher pressure allows the knife to cut more easily.

Report a problem with this question
What's wrong?