Final answer:
The 'suction' feeling while skiing can be due to wet, sticky snow, warmer temperatures causing snow to melt, and improper waxing of the skis. Snow persists on mountain slopes above freezing because phase changes require significant energy over time.
Step-by-step explanation:
When skiing down a slope in the springtime during the afternoon, the skis feeling suctioned to the snow is indeed likely because the snow is wet and sticky. This condition arises due to warm temperatures which cause the snow to melt, reducing the ideal gliding conditions for skis. Additionally, improper waxing of skis for the specific snow conditions can exacerbate this problem, making it harder for the skis to glide smoothly. Snow remains on mountain slopes even when temperatures are above freezing because it takes time for enough heat to be absorbed by the snow for it to melt entirely. The phase change from solid to liquid requires significant energy, and until the snow absorbs enough heat, it will remain on the slopes despite warmer air temperatures.