i am doing a roller coaster project, and the coaster i picked was the Medusa in Marine World Six Flags. Now, I need help with the reqirements.

We have to have at least 10 forces, and I have 9. I'm not too sure of what some of the forces are on a coaster. Any help would be great.

is a barrel roll on a coaster zero G?

Also, what would be mass? the people?

THANKS!

To ensure that you meet the requirements for your roller coaster project, it's important to understand the different forces experienced by riders. Here are some forces commonly associated with roller coasters:

1. Gravity: Gravity is the force that pulls objects toward the center of the Earth. It plays a crucial role in creating the thrilling sensations experienced on roller coasters.

2. Inertia: Inertia is the tendency of an object to resist changes in its motion. Inertia can be experienced as the coaster accelerates, decelerates, or changes direction.

3. Centripetal Force: This force acts towards the center of a circular path and allows the coaster to stay on track during curves and loops.

4. Friction: Friction is the resistance encountered when two surfaces come into contact. It helps maintain traction between the coaster's wheels and the track, allowing for controlled movement.

5. Air Resistance: Air resistance or drag opposes the motion of the coaster as it moves through the air. It becomes more significant at higher speeds.

6. Tension: Tension is the force that occurs when an object is stretched or pulled. It is experienced in parts of the roller coaster such as the lift hill and during inversions.

7. Compression: Compression is the force that occurs when an object is squeezed or compressed. It can be experienced in parts of the coaster where riders feel pressed into their seats.

8. Vertical Forces: These include positive G-forces (pushes riders into their seats) and negative G-forces (lifts riders out of their seats). They are felt during ascents, descents, and inversions.

9. Lateral Forces: Lateral forces, also known as horizontal or sideways forces, occur when the coaster changes direction. They can be felt as riders are pushed to the side.

10. Propulsion Force: Some roller coasters use motors or other mechanisms to provide an additional force to move the coaster along the track. This force contributes to the overall thrill and excitement.

Now, regarding your question about barrel rolls and zero G: A barrel roll is an inversion where the coaster rotates horizontally while maintaining contact with the track. It does not create true zero G conditions. In a true zero G roll, the riders experience a brief period of weightlessness.

In terms of mass, the mass refers to the amount of matter an object possesses. In the context of a roller coaster, the mass would primarily refer to the combined mass of the people riding the coaster.