rollercoasters.

[Krinksy]

I have a question.

 

If a rollercoaster is going down a slope and I need to work out the gravitational potentail energy can I just use the formula

 

GPE = Mass *gravity*height

 

I know I can use that for when something is just falling but is it different when it's going down a slope?

 

If so can you please tell me what formula i should use or how I can calculate the GPE?

 

All replies are appreciated.

[insane_alien]

why would it be different? its still at a height isn't it?

[Krinksy]

yeah but I think it might be different because it isn't falling straight down, it's kinda falling but getting caught on the track which makes it go at an angle.

 

I don't really know.

[Klaynos]

the gravitational PE isn't concerned about any horizontal movement so it doesn't matter it's just the height.

[Krinksy]

Ok cool. Thanks for your help guys.