A roller coaster is primarily considered a combination of simple machines, but it can be viewed as utilizing several key types. The most relevant simple machines involved in the functioning of a roller coaster include:
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Inclined Plane: The hills and drops of the roller coaster track can be seen as inclined planes. As the coaster climbs these inclined planes, it gains potential energy, which is then converted into kinetic energy as it descends.
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Lever: The support structures of a roller coaster can function as levers. The forces acting on the roller coaster cars when they are in motion can be analyzed using the principles of levers.
Overall, while a roller coaster operates through more complex engineering principles and dynamics, it fundamentally relies on these basic simple machines to create the thrilling experience of the ride.