Theme Park Science with Jell-O® Loop-De-Loops
Active Time
45 minutes to 1 hour
Total Project Time
Up to 1 day
Key Concepts
physics, forces, motion, centripetal force, circular motion
![]() IntroductionHave you ever wondered what keeps you in your seat when you are riding a giant loop-de-loop roller coaster? Surprisingly, it is not the seat belt! You are kept in your seat because of something called centripetal force. Centripetal force actually does much more than make a ride on a roller coaster's loop possible — it keeps a satellite in orbit and you in your bicycle when taking a tight curve! In this science activity, you will use marbles and Jell-O® to investigate centripetal force and circular motion. Which way will the marbles go?CreditsTeisha Rowland, PhD, Science Buddies
This activity is not appropriate for use as a science fair project. Good science fair projects have a stronger focus on controlling variables, taking accurate measurements, and analyzing data. To find a science fair project that is just right for you, browse our library of over 1,200 Science Fair Project Ideas or use the Topic Selection Wizard to get a personalized project recommendation.
Materials
Reviews |
Active Time
45 minutes to 1 hour
Total Project Time
Up to 1 day
Key Concepts
physics, forces, motion, centripetal force, circular motion
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