Final answer:
To determine the coefficient of kinetic friction between the skis and the snow, we can use the work-energy principle. The coefficient of kinetic friction is equal to the acceleration due to gravity, which is approximately 9.8 m/s^2.
Step-by-step explanation:
To determine the coefficient of kinetic friction between the skis and the snow, we can use the work-energy principle. The work done by the friction force is equal to the change in kinetic energy of the skier. We can calculate the initial kinetic energy using the mass and initial speed of the skier, and the final kinetic energy would be zero as the skier comes to a stop.
The work done by the friction force can be calculated using the equation: ΔKE = W_friction = -f_kd
Where ΔKE is the change in kinetic energy, W_friction is the work done by friction, f_k is the kinetic friction force, and d is the distance traveled. Rearranging the equation, we can solve for the coefficient of kinetic friction (µ_k): µ_k = -f_k/(md)
Substituting the given values into the equation, we have: µ_k = -f_k/(md) = -mgd/(md) = -g
Therefore, the coefficient of kinetic friction between the skis and the snow is equal to the acceleration due to gravity, which is approximately 9.8 m/s^2.