How to Measure G-Force on Theme Park Rides
The term "G force" stands for gravitational force. It is the amount of the earth’s gravity exerted onto an object. When it comes to theme park rides, G force is the reason they are so fun and exciting. The gravitational forces exerted on the rollercoasters give a unique feeling.
Supplies:
- Ticket to amusement park
- Pencil
- Paper
- Accelerometer
- Purchase a ticket to a theme park. Be sure you have an accelerometer along.
- Choose a ride to go on. Be sure you have the accelerometer on the ride with you. You may have to get permission from the ride attendant to do this. Let them know you are doing it for research.
- While on the ride, be sure you are holding the accelerometer in a vertical fashion. If you make the mistake of holding it horizontally, you won’t get an accurate reading of G force.
- Pay special attention to the g force measurements on the accelerometer for duration of the ride. Once the ride is over, write the largest g force reading you came up with while you were on the ride.
- Do steps one to four for every other ride you enjoy at the theme park. When the day is over and you go home, compare all of the gravitational forces you came up with. Once you have the time to compare them, you will be amazed at how much total g force you experienced. Some rides will stand out more than others due to the level of G force.