Skier, curved motion on slope/ reaction force?

AI Thread Summary
The discussion centers on minimizing the reaction force experienced by a skier navigating a curved path down a slope. The key insight is that when the skier turns downhill, positioning perpendicular to the slope allows gravity to supply the necessary centripetal force, thereby reducing the ground reaction force. The original poster, Glenn, seeks clarification on the mechanics involved in this scenario. Participants emphasize the importance of understanding the forces at play during the skier's motion. Overall, the conversation highlights the relationship between slope dynamics and reaction forces in skiing.
Glenn G
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Hi folks,
I was thinking about an old physics olympiad question I read. Can't remember exactly but it was about minimising the reaction force of a skier as she took a curved path down a ski-slope. That got me thinking generally about what is going on with the reaction force in such a situation.
I got as far as some of my scribblings in the picture above (by first thinking about her just moving directly down the slope). I then realized my mechanics was not good enough to work out what was really going on.
Would really appreciate any input/help.
Glenn
 
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Glenn G said:
Can't remember exactly but it was about minimising the reaction force of a skier as she took a curved path down a ski-slope.
When you go perpendicular to the slope while turning downhill, you want gravity to provide all the centripetal force, to minimize the ground reaction.
 

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