Rollercoaster Builder

This simulation lets students design a track and test it with energy. The cart gains speed as it drops and cannot climb above its starting energy level, shown as a yellow line. Hills that rise above the line stop the cart. Readouts show speed, rider g-force, height and energy level, top speed and cart state. Sliders set friction and launch speed, and a toggle hides the energy line. Teachers can use it to discuss valleys feeling heavy and hill tops feeling light, as well as where energy goes.

• Drag the glowing track points to reshape a hill, then press Release cart and watch the Speed readout.
• Raise a hill above the yellow energy line and see the cart roll back.
• Check Rider g-force at the bottom of a valley and at the top of a hill.
• Add Launch speed so the cart can climb a taller second hill.
• Raise Friction mu and compare Top speed with the earlier run.

1. 1Explain that a cart cannot rise above its starting energy level.
2. 2Relate height drop to speed using energy ideas.
3. 3Describe why g-force is high in valleys and low on hills.
4. 4Redesign a track after testing and justify changes.

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