Roller Coaster Physics

Instructions (Part I): Carefully watch the following videos to understand the relationship between potential and kinetic energy in roller coasters.

Instructions (Part II ): Carefully observe the images and videos below to learn how to build your own roller coaster out foam pipe and a marble. 

Instructions (Part III): Using the provided materials, construct a roller coaster that guides your marble through at least one loop, one turn, and one jump.

Instructions (Part IV): Instructions (Part I): Reflect on the videos and 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.”


Instructions (Part V): 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 feature (jump, corkscrew, etc). 

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