Theory 18/Phase & ice/Ice friction
Skating Is Melt Against Refreeze
The claim
Friction on ice is set by the ratio of frictional melting to refreezing, so the low friction depends on a film that persists rather than on pressure alone.
01Mechanism
Sliding generates melt; the film lubricates while it survives, and refreezing restores friction.
02Prediction
Friction should rise as temperature approaches melting.
03Refutation
Friction tracking pressure alone would remove melting.