A:

For -40 F the Columbia Sportswear Women's Powder Pillow Insulated Plus Size Jacket would not be adequate. For -40 F look at the I would opt for a deep winter parka like the The North Face McMurdo Down Parka - Men's
http://www.campmor.com/outdoor/gear/Product___94825
For information on what -40 F is like please read below:
http://www.weathernotebook.org/transcripts/2001/02/07.html

A:

This jacket weighs just under 2 lbs. - it is rated for fall/winter use. No temperature rating is given by the manufacturer.

A:

Its a thin insulation, which is only filled with poly-fil. It does not have the other insulation found in the rest of the jacket.

A:

Yes, most women would consider this jacket appropriate for skiing.

A:

At 150 grams of insulation the Columbia Sportswear Women's Powder Pillow Insulated Plus Size Jacket would function at below 0 C temps. For below 0 F you would want to have long underwear on to extend the time you could be comfortable outside in below 0.