where K is kinetic energy, m is mass, and v is velocity. Because the mass of a roller coaster car remains constant, if the speed is increased, the kinetic energy must also increase. This means that the kinetic energy for the roller coaster system is greatest at the bottom of the largest downhill slope on the track, typically at the bottom of the lift hill. When the train begins to climb the next hill on the track, the train 's kinetic energy is converted back into potential energy, decreasing the train 's velocity. This process of converting kinetic energy to potential energy and back to kinetic energy continues with each hill. The energy is never destroyed, but is lost to friction between the car and track. Brakes bring the ride to a complete stop.
when does a roller coaster have the most kinetic energy
bottom of the largest downhill slope on the track, typically at the bottom of the lift hill