And as Lenz's law states, that magnetic field opposes the motion of the magnets. As a result, the magnetic field pushes up against the seat, causing the cart to slow down. This is how a drop tower ride's magnetic brakes work. These magnetic brakes are used with hydraulic cylinders to further slow the falling cart down.

The physics of a drop tower is a thrilling demonstration of Potential Energy (U=mgh) being converted into Kinetic Energy (K=21​mv2). As the ride vehicle is hoisted to the top, it accumulates massive gravitational potential energy. When released, gravity accelerates the car toward the earth at approximately 9.8 m/s2, creating a sensation of weightlessness or "zero-G" because the riders and the vehicle are falling at the same rate. The most critical physics component, however, is the braking system. Most modern towers use Eddy Current Brakes. Permanent magnets mounted on the car or the tower move past a non-magnetic conductive rail (usually copper or aluminum). As they pass, they create circular electric currents—Eddy currents—which generate a counter-magnetic field. This provides a smooth, frictionless braking force that is proportional to the speed of the drop, ensuring that the ride stops safely even in the event of a total power failure.