How is a razorsharp kitchen knife safer than a duller one?

Question

How is a razorsharp kitchen knife safer than a duller one?

In: Physics

Answer 1

There’s 2 factors, and both revolve around cutting vs. tearing.

1) A wound from a clean cut will have a simple flat surface with no flaps or dangly bits to trap air and debris so it’s less likely to get infected. A bandage and/or disinfecting ointment can thoroughly cover the wound to promote healing.

2) A dull knife causes you to use more pressure. You’re compressing whatever you’re trying to cut and that stored energy could release at any moment (tearing), which causes you to lose control. Loss of control leads to 1).