2006-12-07 08:12:28 · 14 answers · asked by Anonymous in Science & Mathematics ➔ Engineering
Because only NASA can use roller coasters in the shape of a perfect circle.
2006-12-07 08:20:12 · answer #1 · answered by Chuck Dhue 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
In order to give you a constant "G" throughout the loop.
The acceleration of a body being forced to move in a circle at a given velocity is V^2 / R. As the roller coaster slows by going up the loop, the R has to get smaller to maintain the same acceleration ("G").
If the "G's" are variable, most people will barf....Practically everyone can handle constant G's with a small ramp up and ramp down transition.
From an energy perspective, the teardrop will preserve the most kinetic energy, given the height of the loop, and assuming rolling friction and bearing friction in the trucks.
2006-12-07 20:53:50 · answer #2 · answered by www.HaysEngineering.com 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
It is because of the physics involved. It is less likely that the roller coaster would make it completly around b/c of the gravity pulling down on it. If you watch it, it slows down a little when it gets so high then speeds back up when most of the coaster is on the downward slide. But they can also be round. In that case the coaster has more speed to get through it.
Hope that helps a bit.
2006-12-07 16:19:48 · answer #3 · answered by Tina 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
If you're talking about the loops, it's because the g-force changes are more extreme in the teardrop shape, so the roller coaster is more exciting. there are plenty of coasters with round loops, but they tend to be larger.
2006-12-07 16:14:42 · answer #4 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋
Because as you approach the top of the loop, you're slowing down (going up hill does that....). As you're slowing down, the centrifugal force keeping you in your seat is less, therefore the loop has to be tightened to compensate. As you come down the other side and your speed increases, the loop can be relaxed again, hence the teardrop shape.
Good question!
2006-12-07 16:16:45 · answer #5 · answered by Xander 2 · 1⤊ 0⤋
some are perfect circles
2006-12-07 16:14:36 · answer #6 · answered by d.treadway 2 · 1⤊ 0⤋
gravity , such as it is would not hold the coaster in the circle.
2006-12-07 16:16:06 · answer #7 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 1⤋
thats the way it looks, because of the track goin on and off of it
2006-12-07 16:20:16 · answer #8 · answered by Charlie B 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Xanders on the money with this one.
2006-12-07 18:47:08 · answer #9 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
It isn't always.
Alton Towers - England - has a MAJORLY circular one..
That made me vomit once or twice..
2006-12-07 16:15:11 · answer #10 · answered by oox_becky_xoo 2 · 1⤊ 0⤋