How do I calculate g-forces on a roller coaster?

[blackojacko]

Homework Statement

I have constructed a small scale roller coaster for my physics class. I was given the task of finding a track design with a safe and enjoyable ride. For times sake I plan to simply calculate the changes in g-force. I am using a hotwheels car and plastic track. I simply need to know how to go about calculating negative and positive vertical g-force.

Homework Equations

The few I have read about consist of the gravity constant and radius. Realistically radius might not be able to be obtained.

The Attempt at a Solution

I collected the mass of the car, and its acceleration throughout the track, but anything past data collection has not taken place.

 

[Simon Bridge]

The g-force is just the acceleration in units of 9.8m/s/s.
So work out the acceleration.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/G-force

 

[blackojacko]

So convert the acceleration units?

 

[Simon Bridge]

Pretty much - remember the direction.
If you completely enclosed someone on a roller-coaster, they'd feel gravity change direction and strength.
That's what g-force is about.
Did you read the article?

 

[Nickie]

To calculate g-forces on a roller coaster, you will need to use the equations of motion and Newton's laws of motion. The g-force experienced by an object is equal to the acceleration of the object divided by the acceleration due to gravity (9.8 m/s^2). In the case of a roller coaster, the acceleration is constantly changing as the car moves along the track. Therefore, you will need to break down the track into small sections and calculate the acceleration at each section.

To calculate the acceleration, you will need to use the equation a = v^2/r, where a is the acceleration, v is the velocity, and r is the radius of the track at that point. You can use the velocity data you collected to calculate the acceleration at each section of the track.

Once you have the acceleration data, you can then calculate the g-forces at each section using the formula g = a/9.8. The positive g-forces will correspond to the upward forces experienced by the car, while the negative g-forces will correspond to the downward forces.

It is also important to consider the angle of the track at each section, as this can also affect the g-forces experienced by the car. You can use trigonometry to calculate the angle of the track and incorporate it into your calculations.

Additionally, you may want to consider the mass of the car and how it affects the g-forces. Heavier cars will experience higher g-forces than lighter cars, so you may need to adjust your calculations accordingly.

Overall, calculating g-forces on a roller coaster can be a complex task and may require the use of various equations and data. It is important to carefully consider all factors and make sure your calculations are accurate in order to ensure a safe and enjoyable ride.