1. Go to these web sites.  Locate and write down the different definitions and explanations of what Centripetal Force is.
How Stuff Works- Feeling Loopy

2. Go to the  Funderstanding roller coaster web site.
  Test out the simulator. The goal is to have the car make it around the loop of the roller coaster. After you have succeeded,  think critically about centripetal force.  Use your definitions and resources to help you answer the following questions:

• What did you need to do to get the car through the loop?
• Where do you think the force or pressure is going when you are at the top of the loop?  (For example is the force downwards, sideways, upwards, etc.)
• What type of shape are most roller coaster loops?  Why?

You will need the following materials:
• 2-3 pieces Styrofoam tubing (cut in half)
• 1 Marble (roller coaster car)
• Tape (To put the track- Styrofoam tubing together)
• Ruler
• You are finished building this model when the marble you have goes through the roller coaster successfully.
• Next try and build another roller coaster with more loops, then answer these questions about centripetal force and loops:


Take your ruler and measure the height of each one of your loops.  How tall were they?  How many did you make in total?
What did you need for the marble to get through the loop?
Why do you think this may be important to Roller Coaster Designers?

Centripetal Force Handout
(Note to Instructors: Answer sheets to the Handouts may be obtained by email to the webmaster- ampc@lehigh.edu)

Extension Activity:
Make your own Centripetal Force Machine!
Materials required:
 1 Plastic or paper cup
3 pieces of string/yarn
hole puncher
penny

Directions:
- Punch three evenly spaced holes beneath the rim of the cup
- Tie a string to each hole and then tie them together
- Place pennies in the cup and swing

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