When does acceleration happen on a roller coaster?

1. Speeding Up: As the roller coaster moves from a stationary position, the initial acceleration provides the necessary force to overcome inertia and set it in motion.

2. Climbing: When the coaster climbs a hill or incline against the force of gravity, it is accelerated upwards, even if its speed may be decreasing due to the climbing angle.

3. Dips and Drops: Ascending and descending hills involve changes in velocity and direction, causing the riders to experience acceleration. Descending a steep hill results in rapid acceleration as the roller coaster gains speed due to gravity.

4. Turns and Curves: As the roller coaster navigates twists and turns, it undergoes lateral acceleration, pushing riders to the side. This acceleration is caused by the change in direction and the centripetal force generated to keep the coaster on its track.

5. Sudden Braking: When the coaster comes to an abrupt stop or reduces its speed quickly, it experiences deceleration, also considered a form of negative acceleration.