Question 1

What makes roller coasters move?

Accepted Answer

Roller coasters move because of gravity and special wheels under the cars. At the start, they're pulled to the top of a hill by a motor. Then, gravity pulls them down, and they keep moving because they build up speed.

Question 2

Why do we feel excited on roller coasters?

Accepted Answer

We feel excited because roller coasters go fast and make sudden movements. This makes our heart beat faster and gives us a rush of excitement. It's like being on a wild adventure!

Question 3

What is gravity?

Accepted Answer

Gravity is a force that pulls things down towards the ground. It's the reason why we don't float away and why roller coasters come speeding down hills.

Question 4

What are G-forces?

Accepted Answer

G-forces are what you feel when you're pushed into your seat or lifted out of it on a ride. It happens because the coaster speeds up, slows down, or zooms around curves.

Question 5

How do roller coasters stay on the track?

Accepted Answer

Roller coasters stay on the track because they have wheels on the top, sides, and bottom. These wheels hold tight to the rails so the cars don't fall off, even when upside down.

Question 6

Why do some roller coasters go upside down?

Accepted Answer

Some roller coasters go upside down to make the ride more thrilling. The shape of the loop and the speed of the ride help keep you safely in your seat.

Question 7

How do roller coasters slow down?

Accepted Answer

Roller coasters slow down using brakes. These brakes can be on the track or on the cars, and they gently press against the wheels to make the ride stop safely.

Question 8

What are roller coaster loops called?

Accepted Answer

Roller coaster loops are often called 'inversions' because they flip you upside down. They are shaped like a circle or loop, which allows the train to go upside down and then right-side up again.

Question 9

Do all roller coasters use motors?

Accepted Answer

Not all the time! Only the beginning of the ride usually uses a motor to pull the coaster up the first hill. After that, gravity takes over and moves the coaster along the track.

Question 10

Why do some people feel scared on roller coasters?

Accepted Answer

Some people feel scared because roller coasters are high up and very fast. This can make them nervous, but others find the same things exciting and fun.

Question 11

What’s the first hill of a roller coaster called?

Accepted Answer

The first hill of a roller coaster is usually called the 'lift hill'. It's where the motor pulls the train up to give it enough energy to zoom around the rest of the ride.

Question 12

How are roller coaster tracks designed?

Accepted Answer

Roller coaster tracks are designed with lots of loops, twists, and turns to keep the ride exciting. Engineers use computers to plan these shapes so they are fun and safe.

Question 13

Why do we scream on roller coasters?

Accepted Answer

We scream on roller coasters because they are both exciting and a little scary. Screaming is a fun way to express the mix of thrill and fear we feel on the ride.

Question 14

What are the different materials used for roller coasters?

Accepted Answer

Roller coasters can be made of wood or steel. Wooden coasters often feel bumpier, while steel coasters are smoother and can loop and twist.

Question 15

How high can roller coasters go?

Accepted Answer

Roller coasters can go very high, some even taller than very tall buildings. The height helps them gather speed to make the ride more thrilling.

Question 16

How do engineers keep roller coasters safe?

Accepted Answer

Engineers use special designs, computers, and lots of testing to make sure roller coasters are safe. They also check the rides every day before people get on them.

Question 17

What’s the fastest roller coaster in the world?

Accepted Answer

Currently, the fastest roller coaster in the world is called Formula Rossa. It goes super fast, like a racing car, at speeds over 149 miles per hour!

Question 18

Why do we feel weightless on roller coasters?

Accepted Answer

We feel weightless on roller coasters when they go over hills really fast. It's because your body lifts off the seat a bit, making it feel like you're floating.

Question 19

Can roller coasters go backwards?

Accepted Answer

Yes, some roller coasters are designed to go backwards. This adds a surprising twist and makes the ride even more exciting.

Question 20

Why do roller coasters have safety bars?

Accepted Answer

Roller coasters have safety bars to keep you in your seat during the ride. They keep you safe, especially during loops and upside-down parts.

The Physics of Roller Coasters: Engineering Thrills and G-forces - 20 FAQs Explained Simply