Why is it impossible for a skier to reach maximum speed that is physically possible by converting the change in height to speed?
what is this question asking?
Some of the potential energy available is lost due to friction. Friction on the skis, friction on the air.
The question is asking why it is impossible for a skier to reach the maximum speed physically possible just by converting the change in height into speed. In other words, why doesn't a skier achieve the maximum speed theoretically possible when going downhill solely by using the potential energy gained from descending a slope.
The answer lies in the fact that some of the potential energy available to the skier is lost due to friction. Friction occurs between the skis and the surface they slide on, as well as between the skier and the air they move through.
When a skier descends a slope, a portion of the potential energy they possess is converted into kinetic energy, which is the energy of motion. This conversion allows the skier to gain speed as they move downhill. However, the actual speed attained by the skier will be less than the maximum possible speed calculated only based on the change in height.
Friction acts as a resistance force that opposes the motion of the skier. The skis encounter frictional forces with the snow or ice, which can slow down the skier. Additionally, as the skier moves through the air, they experience air resistance, which further hinders their speed.
The energy lost due to friction is primarily dissipated as heat. As a result, the skier cannot convert 100% of the potential energy gained from the change in height into kinetic energy. This loss of energy restricts the skier from reaching the maximum speed that could be achieved based solely on the change in height.
Therefore, while the potential energy gained from the change in height contributes to the skier's speed, it is not the sole factor determining the maximum speed attained due to energy losses caused by friction.