G-Force, What's That?
That is a great question, and shamefully, up until this post, I really had no idea how to scientifically explain what G-force is, but I could tell you how it feels. According to the experts at GForces.net, G-force is the force of gravity on a particular extraterrestrial body or the force of acceleration anywhere. Confused yet? Let's try to simplify that response. According to the International Association of Amusement parks and Attractions, one G is equal to the normal pull of earth's gravity on the body. Applying Biodynamic data in relation to G-forces ensures engineers design rides that are safe for everyone. The
duration and amount of G-force on a rider determine the safety of the rider. A study on the effect of G-forces by Dr. Murray Allen, Dr. Ian Weir-jones, et al, found that our bodies experience more gravitational pull during daily activities such as sneezing and coughing than we experience on a roller coaster (IAAPA). A simple sneeze carries 2.9 G's of force, while sitting down quickly in a chair, has 10.1 G's of force (IAAPA). Engineers, through science and math, are able to use gravitational pull in order to give us that stomach-in-your-throat felling. The chart below explains how exposure to G-forces for an extended period of time is what causes blackouts and other health issues.
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| G-Tolerance Curve- Businessinsider.com |
Different Types of Roller Coaster Inversions
Corkscrew Roll
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Corkscrew Roll- themeparkreview.com
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A roller coaster inversion is just another name for being turned upside down. There are many different inversions and each provides a unique experience. One of the most popular inversions is the corkscrew. The name says it all as you are whisked around like a cork in a bottle. The picture to the right shows the intimidating, vortex like corkscrew that sends your round and round for a few seconds. You can find a corkscrew at almost any theme park across the country.
Zero-G Roll Out
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| Zero-G Roll Out- Incredible Hulk Coaster |
At the moment of zero gravity, a roll begins causing you to feel weightless as you are turned upside down. One of the more famous and recognizable zero-g roll outs is located here in Central Florida on the Incredible Hulk Coaster. Shooting out 60 MPH out of its iconic tunnel, Bruce Banner's anger is quickly felt as your body becomes completely weightless for that split second. One of my favorite inversions!
Pretzel Loop
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| Superman: Ultimate Gravity- Six Flags |
Iconic just like the amusement park treat, but far more satisfying, the pretzel loop is an inversion unique to flying roller coasters. This inversion begins by taking you head first through a loop, placing you on your back and ending back in the front position. One of the most iconic pretzel loops takes us to Six Flags Great America- Superman: Ultimate Flight. Known for being one of the first flying coasters, Ultimate Flight takes you on a fun ride filled with drops, twists, turns, and that iconic pretzel loop.
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