Introduction. A roller coaster is a machine that uses gravity and inertia to send a train of cars along a winding track. The combination of gravity and inertia, along with g-forces and centripetal acceleration give the body certain sensations as the coaster moves up, down, and around the track.

The physics of a roller coaster is primarily a study in classical mechanics, specifically the conversion and conservation of energy. A roller coaster is essentially a machine that uses gravity and inertia to move a train along a track. The process begins with gravitational potential energy, which is built up as a lift hill pulls the train to its highest point (Ug​=mgh). As the train descends, this potential energy converts into kinetic energy (K=21​mv2), reaching its maximum at the bottom of the first drop. Throughout the ride, energy cycles between these two forms, while also fighting friction and air resistance, which gradually convert mechanical energy into thermal energy. Riders also experience centripetal force and g-forces (gravitational forces) during loops and turns, which create the physical sensations of feeling heavy or weightless (airtime).