Amusement Park Physics - Rollercoaster Pages — Vocabulary
Annenberg Learner (Foundation)
learner.org/series/interactive-amusement-park-physics/ (8/11/13)
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Exemplary sample Uses ACT/SAT
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simulateimitate or represent
A computer model is used to simulate the effects of wind.more
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Amusement park rides use physics laws to simulate danger, while the rides themselves are typically very safe.†
make an imitation or representation of
Show general definition make an imitation or representation of
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propelcause to move forward
Fully aquatic mammals have lost their legs and have a tail fin to propel themselves through the water.more
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You aren't being propelled around the track by a motor or pulled by a hitch.†
propel → propelled:caused something to move forward
Show general definition cause to move forward (to push or encourage)
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invertinvert → inverted:turned upside down
We rode an inverted loop roller coaster.more
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A final set of wheels keeps the coaster on the track even if it's inverted.†1 more
invert → inverted:turned in the opposite position -- such as upside down, inside out, or (of two things) in switched position
Show general definition to turn something upside down, inside out, or reverse its position, order, or meaning
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kinetic energythe energy a moving object has because of its motion
A large ball may not fall faster than a small one, but it has more kinetic energy.more
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The conversion of potential energy to kinetic energy is what drives the roller coaster, and all of the kinetic energy you need for the ride is present once the coaster descends the first hill...Once you're underway, different types of wheels help keep the ride smooth.†
energy a moving object has because of its motion
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physicsthe science of matter and energy
In physics class, we learned how gravity affects falling objects.more
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Amusement Park Physics — What are the forces behind the fun?†6 more
Show general definition the science of matter and energy and their interactions
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themean idea that is unifying or recurrent
The party had a 1950's theme.more
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In 1955, the nation's first theme park opened: Disneyland.
theme → theme park:an amusement park with one or more basic underlying ideas -- such as the "Magic Kingdom" of Disneyworld
Show general definition for theme (as in: theme of the novel) a basic idea that underlies what is being said or done -- especially in a literary or artistic work
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principlebelief
I accept as a basic principle that all people are precious and should be treated with equal dignity.more
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Sand was used to help slow down the sled at the end of the ride to keep it from crashing, a technique based on the principle of friction.†
basic rule or belief
Show general definition a basic rule or belief
The exact meaning of principle can depend upon its context. For example:
  • "our guiding principles" -- basic moral beliefs that guide decisions and behavior
  • "electromagnetic principles" -- rules describing how the world works
  • "She lacks principles." -- lacks moral guidelines
  • "We agree in principle." -- about important basic beliefs
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constantcontinuous
The history of computers is a history of constant technological advancement.more
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The history of this ride reflects a constant search for greater and more death-defying thrills.†
unchanging, continuous, or happening repeatedly
Show general definition unchanging, continuous, or happening repeatedly
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techniqueway of doing something
She developed a new surgical technique that shortens recovery time.more
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Sand was used to help slow down the sled at the end of the ride to keep it from crashing, a technique based on the principle of friction.†
Show general definition a way of doing something; or the methods used to do it well
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collidecollide → collided:crashed together with violent impact
The cars collided and burst into flame.more
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You can also experiment with bumper car collisions.†
collide → collisions:crash together with violent impact; OR  come into conflict
Show general definition crash together with violent impact; or come into conflict