would the Linux experience and the open source equivalent software to what she has been using on the Mac suit her?
IMHO, no. NO, no, No.
Apple and the Mac are geared towards those who don't want to know how or why the thing works, but just want to use it.
PCs are geared towards those who just wish it would work, but have to get under the bonnet a bit to make it work properly.
Open source is geared towards those who enjoy being under the bonnet and are delighted when it actually works - and that is an end in itself!
OK, very tongue in cheek, but you get the drift.
So I can't see her being too thrilled trying to get to grips with Linux.
SD