The Science of Ice Skating | SciShow Kids

The video explores the excitement of a winter walk, emphasizing safety on ice. It explains the concepts of pressure and force, illustrating how they affect ice stability. The video also discusses animal adaptations for walking on ice, such as the wide paws of lynx and snowshoe hares. It delves into the science of friction and why ice is slippery, including the role of a thin liquid layer on the ice surface. Finally, it offers practical tips for maintaining balance on ice, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience.

What should you do before stepping onto a frozen pond?

• Check with grown-ups to ensure it's safe.

• Jump on it to test its strength.

• Walk on it slowly to see if it cracks.

• Throw a rock to see if it breaks.

Why might ice crack when you step on it?

• Because ice is always thin.

• Due to the temperature of your body.

• Due to too much pressure applied on a small area.

• Because of the weight of your body.

How do polar bears avoid breaking thin ice?

• They walk on their hind legs.

• They slide on their belly to spread their weight.

• They avoid ice altogether.

• They jump quickly across.

What is friction?

• A method to melt ice quickly.

• A type of ice that is very slippery.

• A force that occurs when two surfaces rub against each other.

• A force that makes surfaces stick together.

Why is ice slippery?

• Because it is always wet.

• Because it is very cold.

• Due to its smooth surface.

• Due to a thin layer of water created by friction.

What might the top layer of ice be according to some scientists?

• Completely dry.

• Something between solid and liquid.

• Fully liquid.

• Fully solid.

How can you maintain balance on ice?

• By jumping frequently.

• By keeping your arms wide open.

• By keeping your belly button above your feet.

• By walking very fast.