For most roller coasters, a motor rotates a chain drive used to lift the coaster up the hill. Some use linear induction motors between track and coaster to accelerate and/or lift a coaser.15torril said:An explanation of how the ride uses forces and motion. What makes the motion start?
Some type of braking mechanism at the track, usually two long pads that squeeze together onto a rail at the bottom of the coaster cars.15torril said:What makes it stop?
A roller coaster moves through a combination of gravity and kinetic energy. At the start of the ride, the coaster is pulled up a hill by a chain or cable system. This gives it potential energy, which is then converted to kinetic energy as the car moves down the hill. The coaster continues to move through the track, using up its kinetic energy until it reaches the end of the ride.
The speed of a roller coaster is affected by several factors, including the height of the initial drop, the steepness of the hills, the angle of the turns, and the amount of friction between the wheels and the track. The weight and design of the coaster car also play a role in determining its speed.
Roller coasters have loops because they add excitement and thrill to the ride. The loop allows the riders to experience the feeling of weightlessness, also known as g-force. The loop is carefully designed so that the forces on the riders are within safe limits, providing an exhilarating experience without causing harm.
Roller coasters stay on the track through a combination of gravity and centripetal force. The track is designed with special banking and curves to keep the coaster on the track at high speeds. The wheels on the coaster car also have a flange, which helps to keep them from slipping off the track.
Friction plays a crucial role in roller coaster movement. Too much friction can slow down the coaster and make the ride less exciting, while too little friction can cause the coaster to lose control and derail. The track and wheels are designed to have just the right amount of friction to keep the ride safe and thrilling.