Roller Coaster Physics: Potential Energy Peaks at the Hilltop

A roller coaster possesses maximum gravitational potential energy at the top of a hill. Potential energy increases with height because more work is required to elevate the train against gravity.

As the train descends, potential energy converts to kinetic energy (energy of motion), reaching maximum speed and kinetic energy at the bottom. At the summit, kinetic energy is minimal; at the base, potential energy is minimal.

This energy transformation drives the entire ride cycle, with subsequent hills lower than the first to account for friction losses.