Learn about Potential and Kenetic Energy

Roller coasters need energy to in order to move, turn and flip. There are two main types of energy.

Potential energy is the energy stored in an object. A roller coaster cart will have the most potential energy at the top of a hill.

Kinetic energy is the energy an object has while it is moving. A roller coaster cart will have the most potential at the bottom of a hill.

Other vocabulary.

Click the image above and click play to see a simulation of potential and kinetic endergy.

Job Training

Before you jump into building your roller coaster. Let's practice making the basic types of tracks. Click the image above to view the process.

After you watch the video, use the packet of templates to practice building track. Don't connect the pieces yet. Simply build a loop, a curve, a brace, and hills.

Plan Your Roller Coaster

Get a plannning sheet and design/sketch a blue print of your roller coller coaster. Remember to begin your first section as the highest point. Decide if you will have one, two or three levels and then design from there.

Your roller coast must have one hill, one loop and one curve. You must have a stop at the end. (A stop means the marble will stop and be contained on the track or mat.)

Build

Build your roller coaster. You will need to have a sturdy base to begin and the tracks you built on your on the job training. Remember to use your blue prints as you build. Have fun!