Easier just before the end

[GrahamRounce]

Hi - I've wondered for some time about why, when sawing or jigsawing or drilling, wood plastic or even metal, it goes easier just before breaking through at the end? The sound becomes smoother and the cut seems to go faster.
Is it the material somehow softening, or is it when the saw points start to break through, or is it even an illusion, similar to when you turn your attention to a regularly flashing light, or ticking sound, and it seems to take ages for the first flash or tick?
Thank-you, and Merry Christmas!

 

[paulrbarnard]

I think it is a result of mental expectation/anticipation and consequent change in the perception of time.

 

[okeydokey]

I think its sound, there is a different resonance between a thick material (or nearly cut through) as against just starting a cut.

 

[Rodpr]

Reduced friction as cut opens up?

 

[John Brown]

Morphic resonance.

 

[Essex Barn Workshop]

Is it the material somehow softening, or is it when the saw points start to break through, or is it even an illusion, similar to when you turn your attention to a regularly flashing light, or ticking sound, and it seems to take ages for the first flash or tick?

This phenomenon is all about saccades and fixations. It is also why sometimes we don't see cars or cyclists approaching us at a T junction. If you are a driver I urge you to read this fascinating, non-scientific article.

https://www.portsmouthctc.org.uk/a-fighter-pilots-guide-to-surviving-on-the-roads/

 

[GrahamRounce]

Ok, thanks all....!