Final answer:
To calculate the thermal energy due to friction, use the formula Q = μk N d, where Q represents the thermal energy, μk is the coefficient of kinetic friction, N is the normal force, and d is the distance.
Step-by-step explanation:
The thermal energy due to friction generated in this process can be calculated using the formula: Q = μk N d. Q represents the thermal energy, μk is the coefficient of kinetic friction, N is the normal force, and d is the distance. In this case, the distance is given as 7.50 cm per rub and the frictional force is given as 40.0 N. Since the woman rubs her hands back and forth for a total of 20 rubs, the total distance is 20 times the given distance and the total force is 20 times the given frictional force. To find the value of Q, we need to know the coefficient of kinetic friction and the normal force.