Physics of a Roller Coaster

Roller coasters are the perfect combination of gravity and inertia. They rely heavily on the laws of conservation of momentum and energy. This combination of gravity and inertia, along with g-forces and centripetal acceleration give the body certain sensations as the coaster moves up, down, and around the track. The excessive changes in motion are what give the rider the feeling of nausea and a a head rush.

 

One of the best features of a roller coaster is the loop. The loop uses centripetal acceleration and momentum to give the cart enough force to keep its velocity. Roller Coaster also start at high heights because the potential energy due to gravity has to be high enough to give the cart enough energy to have a extremely fast velocity and enough momentum to keep the cart moving to the end. 

As summer rapidly approaches most are going to enjoy the wonders of roller coasters. So make sure that you get out and enjoy this truly captivating work of physics and human ingenuity.