ST.

JOHNS
SENIOR SECONDARY SCHOOL – 600 130

Investigation of Rotational Motion

Roller Coasters

Name : JIYA KOTKAR

Subject : PHYSICS
Class : XI
Academic Year : 2023-2024

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Certified to be the record of work done by jiya kotkar of class

11 B ST JOHNS SENIOR SECONDARY SCHOOL, Delhi

600 130, during the year 2023-2024

Date: ………………………………… Teacher in-charge

Submitted for the practical examination held in ……………………………………… at st

johns, delhi

INTERNAL EXAMINER EXTERNAL EXAMINER

CHIEF SUPERINTENDENT

Date: ……………………………..

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 ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

First of all, I am immensely indebted to Almighty God for his

blessings and grace without which I could not have undertaken this
task and my efforts would never have been a success.

I consider it a privilege and an honor to express my heartiest and

profound gratitude to Ms. Ramya Uday, Principal of our school and
Ms. Thagamani, our Physics Teacher for their appropriate direction,
valuable suggestions and judging assistance so generously extended
to me. Her observations, precious insights and comments have
indeed greatly helped to shape my ideas.

I express my sincerest gratitude to my beloved school for the

supervision and provision of the required apparatus to complete my
project. I also owe a sense of gratitude to my parents for giving me
their collaboration and support throughout this project.

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Table of Contents

1. ABSTRACT ................................................................. 5
Experiment 01 ............................................................ 6
Aim of the Experiment ............................................. 6
Materials Required .................................................. 6
Procedure ................................................................ 6
2. INTRODUCTION......................................................... 8
3. PRINCIPLE ................................................................ 11
4. OBJECTIVES AND APPLICATIONS ............................ 14
5. CONCLUSION........................................................... 15
6. BIBILOGRAPHY ........................................................ 17

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Abstract:

Rotational motion is a fundamental concept in physics that

describes the motion of an object around an axis. Unlike
linear motion, where an object moves in a straight line,
rotational motion involves circular or spinning movement. In
this context, several key parameters come into play, including
angular displacement, angular velocity, angular acceleration,
and moment of inertia.
A roller coaster is an excellent example that vividly
demonstrates rotational motion and centripetal force. In a
roller coaster, the train of cars moves along a track that
includes curves, loops, and twists. As the roller coaster
negotiates these elements, it undergoes rotational motion.

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Experiment 01.
Aim of the Experiment:
Investigating and analyzing the effects of rotational motion on the
overall performance and experience of the roller coaster by designing
a functional roller coaster model that incorporates various elements,
such as loops, curves and hills.

Materials required:
1. Colored papers
2. Duct tape
3. Marbles
4. Cardboard or a sturdy base
5. Pencil or dowel
6. Ruler
7. Scissors
Procedure:
1. Prepare the Base: Start by creating a sturdy base for your roller
coaster loop. You can use a piece of cardboard or any other flat,
rigid material.
2. Design the Track: Use a pencil and ruler to sketch out the
design of your roller coaster track on colored papers. Plan
curves, loops, drops, and other elements to make it interesting.
3. Cut Out the Track Pieces: Carefully cut along the sketched lines
to create individual track segments. Ensure that the edges are
folded upwards as a safety element to the roller coaster.
4. Secure the Supports: Secure the drop of the ride by attaching
cuboidal support structures in the beginning.

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5. Create support structures: To add stability to your roller
coaster, cut out small strips or rectangles of paper to act as
support structures. These can be attached vertically to the sides
of the track.
6. Assemble the Track: Begin assembling the track by connecting
the pieces together. Use tape or glue to secure the joints,
making sure they are aligned properly to maintain a smooth
track.
7. Test the Track: Gradually test the roller coaster track as you
build it. This will help us identify any areas that may need
adjustment or reinforcement.
8. Refine and Decorate: Refine your design based on the test
runs. Make adjustments to improve stability and optimize the
coaster's performance.

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Introduction:

Background:
Rotational motion involves the movement of an object around an
axis. The fundamental concepts of rotational motion are as follows:
1. Angular Displacement (Δθ):
Angular displacement measures the change in the orientation
of an object. It is the angle through which an object has rotated
in a particular direction.

2. Angular Velocity (ω):

Angular velocity represents the rate of change of angular
displacement with respect to time. It is measured in radians per
second (rad/s). Mathematically, it is expressed as

Δθ
ω=
Δt

3. Angular Acceleration (α):

Angular acceleration is the rate of change of angular velocity. It
measures how quickly an object's angular velocity is changing.
Mathematically, it is expressed as,

Δω
α=
Δt

4. Tangential Velocity (v):

Tangential velocity is the linear velocity of a point on a rotating
object at a certain radius. It is related to angular velocity by the
formula,

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 v = r. ω, where r is the radius.

5. Moment of Inertia (I):

Moment of inertia is a measure of an object's resistance to
changes in its rotational motion. It depends on both the mass
and the distribution of mass relative to the axis of rotation.

6. Torque (τ):
Torque is the rotational equivalent of force. It is the product of
the force applied and the lever arm's length. Mathematically,
τ = F. rsin(θ)
where r is the lever arm's length, F is the applied force, and θ is
the angle between the force and the lever arm.

7. Rotational Kinematics Equations:

Analogous to linear kinematics, rotational kinematics equations
describe the relationships between angular displacement (𝜃),
angular velocity( 𝜔), angular acceleration (𝛼 ) and time(t). The
three key equations are:
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(i) 𝜃 = 𝜔𝑜 𝑡 + 𝛼𝑡 2
2
2 2
(ii) 𝜔 = 𝜔𝑜 + 2𝛼𝜃
(iii) 𝜔 = 𝜔𝑜 + 𝛼𝑡

8. Centripetal Force:
In rotational motion, centripetal force is the force directed
toward the center of the circular path that keeps an object
moving in that path. It is essential for maintaining circular
motion and preventing objects from moving in a straight line.

9. Centripetal Acceleration:
In Rotational motion, centripetal acceleration arises as a result
of an object moving along a curved path. It is given by

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 𝑣2
𝑎𝑐 = = 𝑟𝜔2
𝑟
10. Conservation of Angular Momentum:
Just as linear momentum is conserved in the absence of
external forces; angular momentum is conserved in the
absence of external torques. This principle is described by the
equation
I1. ω2 = I2 ω2
for a closed system.

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Principle:

Working of a roller coaster

• The roller coaster begins its journey with an initial ascent, often
achieved through a chain lift mechanism. As the coaster climbs,
it gains gravitational potential energy.
• At the top of the ascent, the roller coaster has stored a
significant amount of potential energy. As it descends, this
potential energy is converted into kinetic energy, resulting in
the coaster gaining speed.
• According to the law of conservation of energy, the total
mechanical energy (potential energy + kinetic energy) of the
system remains constant in the absence of non-conservative
forces like friction. Roller coaster designers aim to minimize
energy losses due to factors like friction and air resistance.

• The roller coaster features curves, turns, and loops designed to

manipulate centripetal forces. As the coaster navigates these

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 elements, it experiences changes in direction and angular
motion. Centripetal forces are responsible for keeping the
coaster on its curved path.

• Gravitational forces play a crucial role throughout the ride.

During descents, gravity propels the coaster forward, and
during ascents or curves, it contributes to the sensation of
weightlessness experienced by riders.
• While roller coaster designers strive to minimize friction and air
resistance, these forces are present and can affect the coaster's
speed. Engineers carefully select materials, optimize track
design, and regularly maintain the coaster to reduce these non-
conservative forces.
• Roller coasters often incorporate thrill elements such as loops,
corkscrews, and helixes. These elements are designed to
manipulate the rider's sensations by varying the direction and
magnitude of forces acting on them. Understanding rotational
motion and centripetal force is crucial in designing these
elements.
• Toward the end of the ride, the coaster may encounter braking
mechanisms to control its speed. Some coasters end with a final
ascent or series of smaller hills, allowing the remaining kinetic
energy to be dissipated gradually.

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• The roller coaster returns to the station, where it comes to a
stop. The overall energy of the system has been transformed
from potential energy at the beginning to kinetic energy during
the ride and then dissipated through various forces.

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Objective and Applications:

• Objective: To comprehend the principles of rotational motion

for ensuring the safety and effective design of roller coasters.
Application: Engineers use the understanding of rotational
motion to design roller coaster tracks, considering factors such
as angular displacement, angular velocity, and centripetal force
to ensure the coaster moves safely along its path without
derailing.

• Objective: To enhance the overall experience of roller coaster

riders by optimizing rotational dynamics.
Application: Designers utilize rotational motion principles to
create thrilling elements like loops, twists, and turns. By
manipulating angular velocity and centripetal force, they craft
exhilarating moments that captivate riders while maintaining
safety standards.

• Objective: To optimize energy conversion and ensure the roller

coaster operates efficiently.
Application: Understanding rotational motion aids in designing
mechanisms to efficiently convert potential energy (from the
initial ascent) into kinetic energy during the ride. This
optimization ensures an exciting yet energy-efficient
experience.

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Conclusion:
In conclusion, the development of a roller coaster model
integrating principles of rotational motion offers a captivating
and educational exploration into the physics of dynamic
systems. Through the construction and analysis of the model,
several key conclusions can be drawn:

Integration of Physics Principles:

The roller coaster model successfully integrates fundamental
principles of physics, including mechanics, dynamics, and
rotational motion. The model provides a tangible platform to
observe and understand how these principles influence the
coaster's behavior.

Role of Rotational Motion:

Rotational motion plays a pivotal role in shaping the roller
coaster experience. As the coaster negotiates curves, loops,
and other track elements, angular displacement, angular
velocity, and angular acceleration contribute to the
complexity and excitement of the ride.

Energy Transformation:
The roller coaster model vividly demonstrates the
transformation of energy throughout the ride. From the
initial potential energy at the highest point to the kinetic
energy during descents and rotational motion during curves,
the coaster dynamically shifts between different forms of
energy.
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Centripetal Forces and Acceleration:
Analysis of centripetal forces and acceleration during curved
sections of the track provides insights into the balance
between gravitational forces and the forces required to
maintain circular motion. This understanding is crucial for
ensuring the coaster's stability and safety.

Optimization of Track Design:

The model facilitates exploration into the effects of different
track designs on the coaster's performance. Adjustments to
factors such as track inclination, curve radii, and loop
dimensions can be made to optimize the ride for both thrill
and safety, illustrating the importance of engineering in
amusement park design.

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Bibliography
Wikipedia
Google
NCERT physics textbook
You Tube

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