How is friction involved in sledding or skiing?

Question

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Answer 1

Friction is extremely important in that it causes heat which causes the snow to melt (a little) and the ski or sled runner actually runs on the layer of water. If there was no friction then you would not move.

Answer 2

Friction is used to change the direction the ski slides when it is put on edge or the foot is twisted in the ski boot. The friction changes which way the ski wants to go by increasing the friction on one side or end, or both at the same time, thus forcing the opposite to go faster hence in a new direction.  It's easier to show on snow than to explain in words. That's why you should take a lesson.

Answer 3

Friction slows down the speed of the sled.