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.