Rollercoaster

Beverly Yuen 10.1 Q10

MYP Science One World Essay: Rollercoasters

Introduction When living in an environment with limited space like Hong Kong, there is not as much entertainment as people would want to. One of many ways to be entertained is going to amusement parks. Rollercoasters are the main attraction of amusement parks, many individuals would enter amusement parks to play their favorite rollercoaster or try out the new ones that are available. Rollercoasters are powered by gravity and momentum and one of the most common places for hangouts as they bring out many excitements for others due to the entertainment given by it. Rollercoasters were first introduced around the mid of 16th century by the Russians (The History of Roller Coasters) and was named as the "Russian Ice Slides". (The Beginning | Roller Coaster History) Rollercoasters have had a significant impact towards the society; it has contributed socially and economically. How does rollercoasters work? Rollercoasters does not have a power source or engine of its own. The coaster is usually moved by gravity and momentum; in order to build up the momentum, the coaster is needed to reach the first hill (lift hill) or be given a powerful launch. There are three components of the rollercoaster: The chain lift, catapult-launch lift and brakes. (1. How Roller Coasters Work) The chain lift is a long length of chains that ascends and is placed under the track. The chains are secured in a loop that is wrapped around a gear towards the top of the hill and another one towards the bottom of the hill; a simple motor turns on the gear. The motor is used to turn the chain loop, allowing the coaster to move upwards. The chains also grips onto chain dogs that are basically hooks, it is used...