Amusement Park Physics

The Beach Boys once did a song called "Amusement Parks USA". It was a musical salute to the rides that one could ride at an amusement park, or county fair, or (nowadays, a mall parking lot). It had a nice beat and you could dance to it. But the real fun from amusement parks is the rides, especially the roller coaster and the bumper cars. There is an 85 year old park near where I live that is still open and has many traditional rides. Have you ever wondered, as you go up to the top of the roller coaster or around the carousel, how these things work. Today's Warped site just happens to explain this in detail.

The site is called Amusement Park Physics. Here you can explore just how these rides go together. You will see a simple merry-go-round carousel, while it looks simple, really has some complexities involved with it's make up. Free Fall rides, as well as Pendulum rides are discussed as well. While it may seem boring, you can see how exciting and difficult it can be when you try to build your own.

How do physics laws affect amusement park ride design? In the Roller Coaster exhibit, you'll have a chance to find out by designing your own. Plan it carefully--it has to pass a safety inspection. You can also experiment with bumper car collisions. The Warp-o-Meter gives this site a 6.5 rating, for the combined educational and information provided, and how it is presented. The only thing missing was the smell of popcorn and cotton candy.

http://www.learner.org/exhibits/parkphysics/