Answer:
Not conserved
Explanation:
Mechanical energy is the sum of potential energy (U) and kinetic energy (K):
[tex]E=K+U[/tex]
The law of conservation of energy states that for any isolated system (=no external forces acting on it), the mechanical energy is conserved.
However, the skier skiing down the slope is not an isolated system. In fact, the force of friction between the surface of the slope and the skis acts on the skier: because of this, some of the mechanical energy of the skier is actually 'lost' while he skies down the slope, and converted into thermal energy (heat) of the snow.
