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Chapter 11: Q8CQ (page 394)

How is pressure related to the sharpness of a knife and its ability to cut?

Short Answer

Expert verified

The surface area of the knife decreases when it becomes sharper.

Step by step solution

01

Definition of pressure

The force per unit area perpendicular to the surface on which the force is exerted is known as pressure. So, the pressure is directly related to force and inversely related to the area. Pressure decreases with an increase in surface area.

02

Relating the sharpness of the knife and its cutting ability to the pressure

The surface area of the knife edge will be less when the sharpness increases. A decreased area will result in increased pressure. If the pressure applied is more, the cutting efficiency will also be enhanced and can be used to cut things easily.

So, the sharpness of the knife is directly related to the pressure and cutting ability of the knife.

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