Mechanics 2 "loop the loop"

The first 200 words of this essay...

Mechanics 2 "loop the loop"

Task

What is the minimum release height needed to "loop the loop." Investigate and validate.

To do this I will create a theoretical model to calculate the minimum height required for the roller coaster to just reach the top of the loop then look at the height required to fully complete a loop.

I will validate my theoretical model using a track.

Assumptions

So I can make a relatively simple model I will have to make some assumptions:

* There is no friction because if there was there would be some work done against it and would mean I could not use the conservation of energy. Roller coasters run on wheels against smooth metal which would not have much friction.

* Air resistance is negligible as most roller coasters are designed quite aerodynamically and have a large mass which would not be affected by a significant amount.

* No energy is lost e.g. sound and heat which would be a result of friction.

* There are no resistive forces

* The loop is an exact circle to make calculations easier