Skip to main content

The physics of roller coasters

750,356 Views

3,230 Questions Answered

Best of Web

Let’s Begin…

Roller coasters give people the opportunity to experience physics in dramatic ways. In this episode of SciShow, they break down how physics work on roller coasters to give you the ride of your life!

Additional Resources for you to Explore

Watch these recommended TED-Ed Lessons

Why don't perpetual motion machines ever work?
Perpetual motion machines — devices that can do work indefinitely without any external energy source — have captured many inventors’ imaginations because they could totally transform our relationship with energy. There’s just one problem: they don’t work. Why not? Netta Schramm describes the pitfalls of perpetual motion machines.

The mystery of motion sickness
Although one third of the population suffers from motion sickness, scientists aren’t exactly sure what causes it. Like the common cold, it's a seemingly simple problem that's still without a cure. And if you think it's bad on a long family car ride, imagine being a motion sick astronaut! Rose Eveleth explains what’s happening in our bodies when we get the car sick blues.


Additional references

How roller coasters work - How Stuff Works

Roller coasters give riders the experience of flying as they shoot riders down long stretches of spiraled tracks. But what about “that sinking feeling”? Find out why it occurs.

Hydraulics - Britannica
Hydraulics, branch of science concerned with the practical applications of fluids, primarily liquids, in motion. Find out more about how hydraulics extends to such mechanical devices as fans and gas turbines and to pneumatic control systems.

Next Section »

About TED-Ed Best of Web

TED-Ed Best of Web are exceptional, user-created lessons that are carefully selected by volunteer teachers and TED-Ed staff.

Meet The Creators

More from Actions and Reactions