Roller Coaster Physics Quiz

Roller Coaster Principles

• The main force that drives roller coasters is gravity.
• At the highest point of the ride, a roller coaster has potential energy.
• Roller coaster cars are usually pulled to the top of a steep hill using a chain lift or a launch system.
• At the top of the hill, the potential energy of a roller coaster is at its maximum.
• The principle that provides the energy and motion for roller coasters is the law of conservation of energy.
• The stored energy based on the position of a roller coaster at the highest point of the ride is potential energy.
• The main working force for roller coasters is gravity.
• The energy needed for a roller coaster to complete its course is provided by the potential energy at the top of the hill.
• The energy of motion is called kinetic energy.
• When released at the top of the hill, a roller coaster has potential energy that is converted to kinetic energy.
• As the roller coaster accelerates down the first hill, its potential energy is converted to kinetic energy.
• The result of friction between the coaster's wheels and the track is heat and a loss of energy.
• Roller coaster designers make the first hill as tall as possible to maximize the potential energy.
• The coaster eventually slows down and stops due to friction and air resistance.
• The term used to describe the feeling of rising out of their seats is "airtime."
• The physics law that states energy can only be transformed into other types of energy is the law of conservation of energy.
• Air resistance has a negative effect on the roller coaster's energy, reducing its speed.
• Roller coaster designers consider the concept of g-force from biology.
• To reduce friction and ensure a smooth ride, roller coaster engineers use lubricants and specialized track materials.
• The primary factor that controls the riders' experience on a roller coaster is the track design.

Test your knowledge of the physics behind roller coasters with this quiz! Learn about the forces, energy, and motion that make roller coasters such an exhilarating experience.