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About This Simulation
Apply the concept of conservation of energy to make the Labster roller coaster ride faster and more exciting. Calculate potential, kinetic and mechanical energy using the formula board to determine how to best improve the roller coaster track.
Learning Objectives
- Define the mechanical energy of an isolated system
- Separate conservative from nonconservative forces
- Define the mechanical energy of a body
- Explain the conservation of mechanical energy
- Apply conservation of energy to describe the movement of a body
- Use the equations for kinetic and potential energy, related to velocity and displacement
- Identify sources of energy and energy transformation
About This Simulation
Lab Techniques
- Manipulate formulae for potential, kinetic and mechanical energy
Related Standards
- 4.1 Open and Closed Systems: Energy
- 4.2 Work and Mechanical Energy
- 4.3 Conservation of Energy, the Work-Energy Principle, and Power
- 2.3 Work, energy and power
Learn More About This Simulation
What does it take to make a roller coaster go 100 km/h? In this simulation, you will learn how manipulating the mass, height, and velocity of a roller coaster affect its overall potential energy and kinetic energy. You will apply the concept of conservation of energy to calculate the mechanical energy of the roller coaster at different positions.
Design a new roller coaster
First, familiarize yourself with the components of the equations for potential and kinetic energy. Next, experiment using different masses of vehicles at different starting positions to discover the effect of mass and height on potential energy, velocity and kinetic energy. Finally, understand how energy transformation can be applied to the calculation of mechanical energy and use this information to design the fastest, most exciting roller coaster.
Calculate potential, kinetic and mechanical energy
Students will become comfortable with the components of the formulae for potential and kinetic energy and how these components are related to joules. By measuring energy in joules and converting from one type to another, students will discover how energy remains constant in an isolated system. Students will have the freedom to experiment with different masses of vehicles at each height to determine which combination fits their initial potential energy desire. Pulling the lever releases the rollercoaster and tracks the velocity, which can then be used to calculate the kinetic and mechanical energy.
Make the ride go 100 km/h
Choose the best vehicle and starting position then change the track by adding loops, dips and even an electric motor. Can you reach 100 km/h?
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For Science Programs Providing a Learning Advantage
North Dakota State College of Science
“They did the simulation at home, then completed the in-person lab within 30 minutes, no questions asked, and passed the quiz with flying colors.”
Lecturer in Human Physiology
University of Westminster
"I saw some of the students who clearly didn’t necessarily like sitting there reading a book discover they could turn on Labster and keep up with the rest of the class because it spoke to them.
Modesto City Schools
"Having something that's engaging for the students gives teachers that opportunity to breathe and get excited again. Because they're seeing the kids light up, they're seeing the kids engage with content."
Wenatchee Valley College
"The question always is, ‘Can we demonstrate that the students are meeting course outcomes?’ Check! We can do that.”
San José State University
"We surveyed over 400 students. More than 90% thought Labster was easy to navigate, and that it was fun, but more importantly, most of them felt confident that they could execute the labs in person. And that confidence is a big deal."
Boost STEM Pass Rates
Boost Learning with Fun
75% of students show high engagement and improved grades with Labster
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Place Students in the Shoes of Real Scientists
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FAQs
Find answers to frequently asked questions.
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A Labster virtual lab is an interactive, multimedia assignment that students access right from their computers. Many Labster virtual labs prepare students for success in college by introducing foundational knowledge using multimedia visualizations that make it easier to understand complex concepts. Other Labster virtual labs prepare learners for careers in STEM labs by giving them realistic practice on lab techniques and procedures.
Labster’s virtual lab simulations are created by scientists and designed to maximize engagement and interactivity. Unlike watching a video or reading a textbook, Labster virtual labs are interactive. To make progress, students must think critically and solve a real-world problem. We believe that learning by doing makes STEM stick.
Yes, Labster is compatible with all major LMS (Learning Management Systems) including Blackboard, Canvas, D2L, Moodle, and many others. Students can access Labster like any other assignment. If your institution does not choose an LMS integration, students will log into Labster’s Course Manager once they have an account created. Your institution will decide which is the best access method.
Labster is available for purchase by instructors, faculty, and administrators at education institutions. Purchasing our starter package, Labster Explorer, can be done using a credit card if you are located in the USA, Canada, or Mexico. If you are outside of North America or are choosing a higher plan, please speak with a Labster sales representative. Compare plans.
Labster supports a wide range of STEM courses at the high school, college, and university level across fields in biology, chemistry, physics, and health sciences. You can identify topics for your courses by searching our Content Catalog.