What is the primary factor limiting speed of a roller coaster?

The primary factor limiting speed of a roller coaster is the amount of centripetal force that the track can provide to keep the cars on the track. Centripetal force is a force that acts on an object moving in a circular path, directed towards the center of the circle. In the case of a roller coaster, the centripetal force is provided by the track, which exerts a force on the cars to keep them moving in a circular path.

A roller coaster needs enough centripetal force to keep the cars moving on the track, even at the highest speed. If the centripetal force is insufficient, the cars will fly off the track.

The amount of centripetal force required depends on the radius of the curve and the speed of the cars. The smaller the radius of the curve, the more centripetal force is required. The faster the cars are moving, the more centripetal force is required.

The maximum speed of a roller coaster is limited by the amount of centripetal force that the track can provide. The stronger the track, the faster the roller coaster can go.