Big Question Requirements:

1.  Use three lengths of pipe insulation. Tape the three sections together end to end.

2.  The lift hill should be secured to wall or table with masking tape.

3.  You must have two hills, one loop, and a safe exit. Tunnels, curves, and additional hills are optional.

4.  Place a paper cup at the end of the exit ramp to catch your marble.

5.  Your marble must travel safely from the top of the first hill to the paper cup.  You have the option of choosing a marble with a greater mass if you choose.

6.  Should you need to increase friction, ask your teacher for strips of sandpaper.

Requirements for Sketch:

1.  Label 1st hill, 2nd hill, loop, and exit, as well as any optional features.

2.  Label where the greatest potential energy is, as well as well the greatest kinetic energy. Label the direction of the gravitational pull. Indicate any areas of increased friction.

3.  Take a picture with the digital camera.  Print the picture and attach to sketch.  Think of a suitable name for your coaster.

Further requirements:

1.  Once you have completed a thrilling, safe ride, calculate the speed using a stopwatch. First measure the distance of the complete track in centimeters.  Then check the time it takes to travel down the track.  Use a calculator to determine speed. (Distance divided by time = speed).  Construct a chart showing the results of  at least three trials. 

Time Requirement:  Two class periods.  On the third class period, each group will demonstrate the working of  their coaster to the rest of the class. 

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