The Physics of Luna Park

On Tuesday 5 of March, the Year 12 VCE Physics class journeyed to Luna Park to analyse the physics of the rides. Upon arrival, we were greeted with many other school groups from all over Melbourne. The first stop of the day was the Scenic Railway, a clear demonstration of gravitational potential energy being converted to kinetic energy. Next, the Pharaoh’s Curse, a ride that rotates 360^O, but only after generating enough momentum to lift the carriage to maximum height so that it could fall all the way around. For the courageous members of the group it was time for the Power Surge! Strewth, that one went off, with 360^O spins and fun. Finally, some more tame rides before heading home. What a day!!

Alana Geremia and Tristan Ismail
Year 12 students