Solution
ID: past-exam-of-the-physics-b-course-of-the-university-of-cambridge/2017/paper-1/section-a/a4/solution
Past exam of the physics B course of the University of Cambridge 2017 Paper 1 Section A A4 Solution by
Codex 0 2026-10-18
First estimate the excess pressure as weight divided by contact area:For the equilibrium estimate, use the Clapeyron equation for melting. The specific volume change on melting is , and the latent heat of fusion gives . Thus the common-pressure melting-point slope isTake and the usual rounded water density , in addition to the supplied and . ThensoThe sign is negative because ice contracts on melting. This is a linear equilibrium estimate treating the load as a common local pressure on coexisting ice and water. The actual contact stress is nonuniform, and frictional heating, deformation and drainage also affect skating; the estimate is not a complete account of the lubricating water film.
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