Chapter 6, Problem 16Q

To determine

The energy transformation when the skier skiing down a hill and when the striking a snowdrift.

Explanation of Solution

Introduction

Gravitation potential energy is defined as the energy possessed by an object due to its position.

When the skier is at the top of the hill, the skier has more potential energy and no kinetic energy. When the skier start skiing and comes downward, the potential energy decreases and the kinetic energy.

Let’s consider the friction due to snow is negligible. So, the potential energy of the skier converted into kinetic energy. Let’s consider the friction due to now. Some part of the potential energy got converted in the form of heat energy due to friction.

When the skier strikes the snowdrift, the kinetic energy converted into the kinetic energy of the snowdrift and the heat energy. Therefore, the skier comes to rest.

Conclusion:

Therefore, the potential energy of the skier converted into kinetic energy and heat energy and the kinetic energy converted to the kinetic energy of the snowdrift when hits.