Science Buddies: "Ask an Expert"

Hi!
I am a high school student and I have to make a model roller coaster for my physics project.

https://www.sciencebuddies.org/mentorin ... php?t=1408

^ This topic really helped me a lot with my questions, but I still need more examples of possible materials that I could use to build a model roller coaster.


So, my two specific questions are:
1. Which metal and rubber materials would be the best (affordable, easy to shape into loops, hills, etc., and less friction) for the tracks? And where can I buy them? (I live in Canada. )
2. Which materials would be the best to use to support the tracks?

Also, any construction tips (to make it strong and thrilling) would be greatly appreciated. This project is challenging for me because I'm really bad at building things.

Thanks a lot for your time and help!

I am sorry that I can't help you. I live in USA.

hushnow wrote:Hi!
I am a high school student and I have to make a model roller coaster for my physics project.

https://www.sciencebuddies.org/mentorin ... php?t=1408

^ This topic really helped me a lot with my questions, but I still need more examples of possible materials that I could use to build a model roller coaster.


So, my two specific questions are:
1. Which metal and rubber materials would be the best (affordable, easy to shape into loops, hills, etc., and less friction) for the tracks? And where can I buy them? (I live in Canada. )
2. Which materials would be the best to use to support the tracks?

Also, any construction tips (to make it strong and thrilling) would be greatly appreciated. This project is challenging for me because I'm really bad at building things.

Thanks a lot for your time and help!

Hello, hushnow!

(Hey, natyal1234567891011, if you're listening, please post your question as a separate topic. You aren't going to get many replies with your question buried under this topic!)

I think you already have answers to your questions. You included in your post a link to another topic concerning rollercoasters. I think the suggestion from Greist_Physics shown there was great:

"A very simple solution: Build a roller coaster track for a marble to demonstrate loops, turns, energy, etc. A very nice material to use is foam pipe insulation. All you have to do is cut it in half. It is extremely easy to shape into loops, hills... whatever you want. Also, at about $3 or $4 for 12 feet, it's VERY affordable! You can get it at Home Depot in any size you would need. Get a few and experiment for the best!

As far as supporting it, I would suggest wooden dowels, popsicle sticks... whatever you have available. "

You can buy the materials listed at any hardware or home improvement store. If you go into one of those stores and ask them to help you, they'd probably really be happy to lend a hand!

OneBriiguy wrote:Hello, hushnow!

(Hey, natyal1234567891011, if you're listening, please post your question as a separate topic. You aren't going to get many replies with your question buried under this topic!)

I think you already have answers to your questions. You included in your post a link to another topic concerning rollercoasters. I think the suggestion from Greist_Physics shown there was great:

"A very simple solution: Build a roller coaster track for a marble to demonstrate loops, turns, energy, etc. A very nice material to use is foam pipe insulation. All you have to do is cut it in half. It is extremely easy to shape into loops, hills... whatever you want. Also, at about $3 or $4 for 12 feet, it's VERY affordable! You can get it at Home Depot in any size you would need. Get a few and experiment for the best!

As far as supporting it, I would suggest wooden dowels, popsicle sticks... whatever you have available. "

You can buy the materials listed at any hardware or home improvement store. If you go into one of those stores and ask them to help you, they'd probably really be happy to lend a hand!

I see... So, you agree that those are probably the best materials to use for a model roller coaster.

Thank you very much!

natyal1234567891011 wrote:I am sorry that I can't help you. I live in USA.

Thanks a lot, anyway! ^_^

natyal1234567891011

quit being such a nuisance...

(sry...but someone has to say it)
aznnerd666