How Does a Rollercoaster Work?
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The Big Trick: No Engine
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What makes a roller coaster interesting is the complete lack of engine. Instead, the track, loops and curves all work to give the train its zip and zoom. Coasters are incredibly complex structures that utilize physics to create a thrilling ride.
Whether built of wood or metal, a roller coaster engages all five senses to pull the rider in and create an adrenaline rush. The twists and turns are fun, but it's the sound of the creaking wood, or the imminent crash into a waterfall, that really makes the experience worthwhile.
The Importance of Energy
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Kinetic and potential energy are the main forces behind a successful roller coaster. Because of these, the train races along the track from the first fall with alarming speed.
To start, the cars are pulled up the track by a mechanical belt; the ticking that you hear are locks that click into place as the train progresses to prevent slippage backwards. The cars stop at the zenith of the first rise--the highest hill on the track (this creates a lot of potential energy). It'll hang for a bit, just enough to create psychological fear in the rider.
Then, the car pitches down. The ride starts, going into a blinding turn. This turn creates yet more energy. Think of what happens when you make a fast turn in your car--there are forces at play keeping your car on the ground, along with energy that is so strong that it's able to rock and move your body. Loops make even more force.
Hills will shorten as the ride progresses, and there will be more shallow curves along the route. This works to slow the ride down. At the very end, there will be triggers that activate brakes on the cars, slowing the train down and leaving you wondering what just happened.
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The Great Wood vs. Metal Debate
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Coaster enthusiasts argue about building materials and their supposed benefits. What are the differences?
Metal lovers like the loops, twists and chilling heights. Metal coasters allow for the feet to dangle in some instances, creating a sense of flight. The ride is smooth and relatively quiet since the cars are gliding along the structure. Metal coasters are great for the rider who enjoys a startling mix of strong energies.
Wooden coaster riders, on the other hand, are in it for the all-encompassing experience. Many wooden coasters are old, and have a rich history behind them. When you ride a wooden train, you can feel that history in every bump, creak and sway of the tracks. The wood has give; in fact, it may feel like you're holding onto your life by a string. The cars may lurch, and it may seem like the track will crack right underneath the train. Wooden coasters are constructed with fear in mind.
Of course, the best way to find a favorite is to try several varieties of coaster. With new ones popping up all over, there's always a new adventure waiting on a track near you.
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Resources
- Photo Credit 2008 caruba / Creative Commons
