http://www.learner.org/interactives/parkphysics/coaster.html
1. Automobiles run by use of engines, how do roller coasters run?
2. List the three types of wheels incorporated into a roller coaster and describe their purpose
3. What advantage do wooden coasters have over steel ones?
4. (Go to “read more about their history.) Where was the first American roller coaster?
5. What was America’s first theme park and what rollercoaster did it offer?
6. What is an inverted rollercoaster? (Ex. What rollercoaster at Six Flags over Mid-America is inverted? )
*Return to the main page where you can design your roller coaster
Experiment with different designs until you have built a rollercoaster that has a good safety and good fun rating (both thumbs up)
List the specifications for your roller coaster
Height of the first hill _________________ Shape of the first hill ___________________
Exit Path _______________________ Height of the second hill ________________
The Loop _____________________
Site 2: http://www.funderstanding.com/coaster
Play with the simulator to answer the following questions:
1) Assuming you cannot change the mass, friction or gravity. What happens if the first hill is too high?
What happens if the first hill is too low?
2) Create a design that is functional. Indicate in each of these changes whether the rollercoaster still works (yes or no).
Increase the mass ? ____ Decrease the mass? _______
Increase the speed? _____ Decrease the speed? _______
Increase gravity? _____ Increase friction? ______
Site 3: http://puzzling.caret.cam.ac.uk/ - go to brainteasers and puzzles - science puzzles - find the icon for the roller coaster
Read the instructions. You adjust your coaster by clicking and dragging the squares on the track to make hills and valleys. Make a drawing of 2 designs that were functional.
Site 4: Go to www.ultimaterollercoaster.com - go to roller coasters - roller coaster records. Fill out this data table
| Largest Drop | Name of Coaster | Park | Year Built |
| Tallest | |||
| Longest | |||
| Fastest | |||
| Angle of descent |
Locate the amusement park closest to where you live using the park locater.
Name of the Park: ___________________________________________________
Investigate your favorite coaster at this park. If you don’t have a favorite, just choose one from the list.
Name of roller coaster: ________________________________________________
Type of track ____________________________________________
Height __________________ Drop _______________
Top speed _______________ Length ___________ Ride Time _______
Short Essay: Explain what you like about this ride. Be detailed in your description.
Alternative: If you’ve never been to this ride, explain what would make a roller coaster exciting for its riders. What would make this roller coaster a great attraction for the park.