Physics of skiing

The motion of a skier is determined by the physical principles of the conservation of energy and the frictional forces acting on the body.

The shape and construction material of a ski can also greatly impact the forces acting on a skier.

In an area which consistently experiences temperatures below 0°C, snowfall leads to accumulation of snow on the ground.

Search and rescue teams, and backcountry users rely on our understanding of snow to navigate the dangers present in the outdoors.

Alpine ski racers wear skin tight race suits.

The texture of this top layer dependent on the weather history. The texture and physical properties of snow can change over time. The snow quality directly affects how a skier's equipment perform, and how the skier skis.