CBSE Class 11-science Answered

A roller coaster operates on the principle of energy transformation. Work is initially done on a roller coaster to lift to its initial highest point. Once it is lifted to the top, the roller coaster gains a large quantity of potential energy. As the roller coaster descends on the track, its potential energy is transformed into kinetic energy due to which the roller coaster gains speed. As the roller coaster climbs the summit, its kinetic energy is transformed into potential energy and as it comes down its gained potential energy is converted to kinetic energy.

 

On a roller coaster ride the total amount of mechanical energy is the same at every location along the track.

Mechanical Energy = Kinetic Energy + Potential Energy

The amount of kinetic energy and the amount of potential energy is constantly changing.