Amusement Park Physics With a NASA Twist - Space Flight Systems ...
Amusement Park Physics With a NASA Twist - Space Flight Systems ...
Amusement Park Physics With a NASA Twist - Space Flight Systems ...
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Structure Estimation<br />
9 bars to the<br />
highest point<br />
7/10<br />
This method allows students to estimate the height of a ride using support structures and<br />
proportions instead of geometry. Regular support structures are common on many amusement<br />
park rides. Students begin by estimating the height of the first support structure, relative to their eye<br />
level, and turn this into a fraction. They count the number of support structures between the ground<br />
and the top of the ride. Using multiplication and proportions, students can estimate the height of the<br />
ride with some accuracy.<br />
In order to estimate the height of a structure, try to position yourself as close as possible to the<br />
structure base. Do not climb fences or cross into prohibited areas. The first thing to look for are<br />
regular support structures which have less height than the overall structure. The most accurate<br />
method is to estimate the height of the first support structure, and then count the number of<br />
supports between the ground and the top of the main structure.<br />
35<br />
<strong>Amusement</strong> <strong>Park</strong> <strong>Physics</strong> <strong>With</strong> a <strong>NASA</strong> <strong>Twist</strong><br />
EG–2003–03–010–GRC