Why Do Skis Slide So Well on Snow?

What Crafty Clover says in this video

Intro

Hi there, curious minds! I'm Crafty Clover! Let's discover something amazing. Why do skis slide so well on snow?

The Big Idea

Skis slide so well on snow because of a very thin layer of water. It forms on the surface where the ski rubs the snow. That slippery film works a bit like oil on a bike chain.

Skis Rub the Snow

Step one: the ski rubs the snow. When a ski slides, rubbing makes a tiny bit of heat. The surface of the snow is already slippery, too.

A Thin Water Film

Step two: a thin film of water appears. The snow and ice on the very top turn to a thin layer of water under the ski. That film works like oil on a bike chain.

Wax Helps

Step three: wax helps even more. Wax on the bottom of a ski helps it glide and keeps snow from sticking. When it is super cold, there is less water, so skis are slower.

A Closer Look

Let's take a closer look at gliding! Rubbing makes a little heat. That makes a thin film of water. Wax helps the ski slide even better. But in super cold snow, there is less water, so skis are slower.

Quick Facts

Quick facts! Ski wax is chosen to match the snow temperature. Warmer snow needs a different wax than colder snow. Ice skates glide on a thin film of water, too. Skiing takes training, so learn with grown-ups and instructors.

Think Like a Scientist

Now, think like a scientist! Slide an ice cube across a plate. Then slide it across a rough towel. Which glides better? A thin film of water helps a smooth glide.

Outro

Thin water makes skis fly. Science is amazing! Crafty Clover can be found on Amazon Books, Google Bookstore, and Apple Books. Available for purchase or download! Bye for now!