Marble Roller Coaster Physics

🧠Background Knowledge

Carefully view the below videos to learn more about wind turbines.

🎓Objective

  • Build a marble roller coaster to demonstrate potential and kinetic energy.

🎢Careers Involving Roller Coasters

  1. Mechanical Engineer – Designs the ride systems and moving parts.
  2. Structural Engineer – Ensures the roller coaster is safe and stable.
  3. Civil Engineer – Prepares the land and foundations for coaster construction.
  4. Theme Park Designer – Plans the layout and story of the entire park.
  5. Ride Technician – Maintains and repairs roller coasters daily.
  6. Safety Inspector – Checks that all rides meet safety regulations.
  7. Electrical Engineer – Works on the power and control systems of the ride.
  8. Computer Programmer – Codes the ride control systems and effects.
  9. Architect – Designs the buildings, stations, and themed environments.
  10. Industrial Designer – Creates the look and feel of the coaster cars and seats.
  11. Animatronics Specialist – Builds moving characters and special effects along the ride.
  12. Sound Designer – Adds music and sound effects to enhance the experience.
  13. Graphic Designer – Designs signage, maps, and branding for the ride.
  14. Project Manager – Oversees the entire roller coaster construction project.
  15. Fabricator/Welder – Builds the steel track and frame of the coaster.
  16. Mathematician – Calculates curves, speeds, and forces.
  17. Ride Operator – Runs the roller coaster and ensures guests load/unload safely.
  18. Test Rider – Rides the roller coaster before opening to help test performance.
  19. Simulation Developer – Designs virtual coaster rides and training tools.
  20. Marketing Specialist – Promotes the new ride and attracts guests to the park.

đź‘·Build Your Coaster

Materials:

  • Pipe Insulation
  • Tape
  • Skewers
  • String
  • Marble

Must Haves: 

  • One Loop
  • One Turn
  • One Corkscrew

After completing your roller coaster, label the area of highest potential energy with a piece of tape marked “Max PE” and the area of highest kinetic energy with a piece marked “Max KE.”

📱Upload Your Work

  • Record a video of your marble completing the entire roller coaster. Enter your first name in the “Subject” field. Below, you will find a QR code to simplify the upload process. Once successful, modify your roller coaster to include an additional loop, turn, or corkscrew.

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