Question

task 2: experience
explore the link below and take a virtual ride on cedar points top thrill dragster. https://www.cedarpoint.com/play/desktop - thrill - dragster

1. in the space provided, make a sketch of what the roller coaster track looks like.
2. next, label the point(s) at which the coaster has the greatest potential energy (p) and the greatest kinetic energy (k). *you may have to play the animation more than once.

Explanation:

Step1: Sketch the roller - coaster track

Sketch based on the virtual ride experience. The track will likely have hills, drops, loops etc.

Step2: Identify potential energy point

Potential energy ($P$) is greatest at the highest point of the track. This is because potential energy is given by $PE = mgh$ (where $m$ is mass, $g$ is gravitational acceleration, and $h$ is height), and height $h$ is maximum at the highest point.

Step3: Identify kinetic energy point

Kinetic energy ($K$) is greatest at the lowest point of the track. As the coaster drops, potential energy is converted to kinetic energy. At the lowest point, the speed is maximum (assuming no non - conservative forces like friction are considered in a basic analysis), and kinetic energy is given by $KE=\frac{1}{2}mv^{2}$, so it is greatest when $v$ is maximum.

Answer:

Sketch the track as seen in the virtual ride. Mark the highest point as $P$ (greatest potential energy) and the lowest point as $K$ (greatest kinetic energy).