What type of cut does a serrated knife typically produce?

A serrated knife is designed with a series of saw-like teeth along its blade. This unique design allows it to grip and cut through tougher surfaces, such as bread or tomatoes, without crushing them. The result of using a serrated knife typically produces a jagged cut. The teeth of the blade create small, uneven edges along the slice, which characterizes the jagged appearance.

This type of cut is particularly advantageous when working with items that have a crust or a tough exterior, allowing for a clean slice while maintaining the integrity of the softer inside. The other types of cuts mentioned do not accurately describe what a serrated knife produces; for example, a straight cut involves a smooth and even edge without any serration, while a smooth cut is achieved with a straight-edged blade, and a curved cut would result from a knife specifically designed for curved slicing. Hence, the jagged cut produced by a serrated knife is the correct answer.