The Physics Behind Curling: Friction and Surface Dynamics

When did curling become a part of the Winter Olympics?

• 1992

• 2006

• 1998

• 2002

What is the main objective in a game of curling?

• To push the rock with the highest force

• To get the most rocks closest to the center of the target

• To sweep the ice as fast as possible

• To create the most friction on the ice

What is the purpose of the hack in curling?

• To measure the distance

• To position the foot for a push-off

• To sweep the ice

• To mark the center of the target

What effect does sweeping have on the curling stone?

• It increases the friction

• It reduces the friction

• It changes the stone's weight

• It stops the stone

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How does sweeping generate heat on the ice?

• By adding snow to the ice

• By freezing the water

• By creating a meltwater film

• By melting the ice completely

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What is the texture of curling ice compared to other ice sports?

• Completely flat

• Smooth like a Zamboni surface

• Rough with pebble-shaped bumps

• Covered in snow

Why does curling ice have a rough texture?

• To reduce the total ice surface contact

• To make it harder to sweep

• To slow down the stone

• To create a vacuum

What is the weight of a standard curling stone?

• 30 pounds

• 35 pounds

• 42 pounds

• 50 pounds

Where does the granite for curling stones come from?

• Scotland

• Sweden

• Norway

• Canada

What happens when two curling stones collide?

• They stop moving

• They transfer kinetic energy and momentum

• They break apart

• They melt the ice

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