Energy stored in an object due to its position above a reference point. Depends on mass, gravitational acceleration, and height. Formula: GPE = mgh
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Kinetic Energy
Energy an object possesses due to its motion. Depends on mass and velocity of the object. Formula: KE = ½mv²
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Conservation of Energy
The law stating that total mechanical energy in a system remains constant when no external forces do work. Energy converts between forms but the total amount stays the same.
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Mechanical Energy
The sum of an object's kinetic energy and potential energy. Total mechanical energy = KE + GPE
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Energy Conversion on Roller Coaster
As a coaster descends, gravitational potential energy converts into kinetic energy. As it climbs, kinetic energy converts back into potential energy.
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Friction Energy Loss
Friction converts mechanical energy into thermal energy (heat), reducing the total available mechanical energy in a system.
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Roller Coaster Hill Height Rule
Without external energy, each subsequent hill of a roller coaster must be at most as high as the first, and in reality must be shorter due to friction and air resistance.
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Highest Kinetic Energy Location
A skater or roller coaster car has the highest kinetic energy at the lowest point of the track where speed is greatest.
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Highest Potential Energy Location
A skater or roller coaster car has the highest potential energy at the highest point of the track where it is momentarily at rest.
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Chain Lift Mechanism
A motorized system on traditional roller coasters that pulls cars from the bottom to the top of the first hill, converting electrical energy into gravitational potential energy.
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Powered Launch System
Mechanical systems like linear induction motors or hydraulic launches that inject energy into a roller coaster at specific points, allowing taller hills later in the ride.
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GPE Formula
GPE = mgh, where m is mass in kg, g is gravitational acceleration (9.8 m/s²), and h is height in meters
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KE Formula
KE = ½mv², where m is mass in kg and v is velocity in m/s
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Thermal Energy
Heat energy created when friction acts on a moving object, representing mechanical energy that has been lost from the system.
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Reference Point
The zero height level used as a baseline for calculating gravitational potential energy in a system.