Definitions on Factors Concerning Coasters

acceleration The rate of change in velocity. Acceleration is an increase in speed. Equation=Final Velocity -Original Velocity divided by time.
gravity The force of attraction that depends on the mass of 2 objects and the distance between them; responsible for accelerating an object toward the Earth.
potential energy The energy of shape or position; stored energy
kinetic energy The energy that a moving object has to its motion;energy of motion
force A push or pull that gives energy to an object sometimes causing a change in the motion of the object.
friction A force that acts in the opposite direction of motion; will cause an object to slow down and finally stop.
weight The measure of the force of attraction between objects due to gravity. Equation=Mass times Acceleration due to gravity
decelerate If there is a decrease in velocity, the value of acceleration is negative. Negative acceleration is deceleration. When you slow down, you decelerate.


  • Constrained Fall
  • Caculating Time
  • Inversions
  • Dissipative Forces because of Friction
  • Physics and Safety of Roller Coasters
  • The Motions of Roller Coasters
  • The History of Roller Coasters
  • How Roller Coasters Stop
  • Bibliography
  • Roller Coasters : What A Thrill