Question

Answer MisConceptual Question 10 assuming a small amount of friction.

Short answer

Option (c)

Step-by-step solution

Definition of kinetic and potential energy

The energy possessed by an object by virtue of its motion is known as kinetic energy.

The energy stored in an object by virtue of its position above the surface of the earth is known as gravitational potential energy.

Conversion of skier’s energy in the absence of friction

When friction is neglected, the skier’s initial gravitational potential energy at the top gets converted into kinetic energy at the bottom. It follows the law of conservation of energy.

Conversion of skier’s energy in the presence of friction

According to an analysis, the frictional force (f) on a steeper slope has a lesser magnitude than on a flatter slope. The normal force (N) acting upward on the skier is proportional to the friction\(\left( {f = \mu N} \right)\).

Consider an extreme case where the hill is almost vertical. The contact force between the skis and the hill is zero; hence, the friction is zero.

Thus, the skier will be coasting with a great speed in option (c) because the steepness of the hill, in this case, is the highest with the least friction.