Do heavier people go faster on waterslides?

The Design of the Slides Water also plays a part in the design of the rides. Deeper water propels heavier riders along to keep them moving smoothly. Lighter riders get swept up in the water and go about the same speed as the water until they reach the bottom.



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The Forces of Nature While each type of slide works a little differently, all water slides are fundamentally a product of three forces: gravity, friction, and inertia. Gravity forces passengers down the ride, while water acts as a lubricant to reduce friction, so the ride is fast and smooth.

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Gravity pulls the rider toward the Earth, helping to speed up their trip down the waterslide. Of course, friction also plays a part. Whether a person rides down the slide on their backs, a mat, or an intertube, the contact causes friction. This can slow the rider down.

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Heavier people will have more friction force and may slide slower. If the slide is long enough, a heavier person's higher momentum may allow a higher average velocity. I remember when I was a little kid, I was so light that I couldn't even slide on some slides that the bigger kids had no problem with.

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Slide must be ridden feet first lying on your back or in a sitting position (sit up to go slower, lie down to go faster).

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Without height and weight restrictions, there's a risk that people who are too small or large for a ride may fall out, break bones or get stuck. This can result in serious injuries or even death.

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My First Waterslide Splash and Slide, Easy Assmebly, 132lb Limit - Walmart.com.

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Since these are gravity sports, being heavier will make you go faster. So there are maximum weights set to ensure a level playing field. Skeleton players can add ballast to their sleds to get closer to the maximum. In luge, the lighter athletes can wear lead so that everyone weighs the same.

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