Instructions
- Read the "Science of the Splash" introductory sections to understand the physics behind your favorite Great Wolf Lodge water slides.
- Complete the activities in order. They move from basic concepts like gravity to complex engineering challenges.
- Use a pencil so you can sketch and make changes to your designs!
- Check your work against the Answer Key at the end of the worksheet once you are finished.
Section 1: The Energy Climb
To get to the top of a slide like the Alberta Falls, you have to climb a lot of stairs. This isn't just exercise; it's physics! You are storing Potential Energy (stored energy based on your height). The higher you go, the more energy you have to turn into Kinetic Energy (energy of motion) on the way down.
The Slide Components Table Identify the purpose of each part of a water slide. I have provided the first example for you.
| Slide Part | Scientific Purpose | How it affects your ride |
|---|---|---|
| The Stairs | Increases Potential Energy | The higher you climb, the faster you can potentially go. |
| Steep Incline | ||
| Water Pump | ||
| Fiberglass Surface | ||
| Curved Turns | ||
| The Splash Pool |
Section 2: Friction vs. The Flow
Why don't you get a "rug burn" on a water slide? Water acts as a lubricant. It creates a thin layer between your body (or the raft) and the slide's fiberglass surface, which reduces friction.
Fill in the Blanks Words to use: Bolts, Lubricant, Fiberglass, Friction, Heat.
- Without water, the __ between your skin and the slide would create too much __, making the ride painful and slow.
- Most slides are made of __ because it is smooth, strong, and can be molded into crazy shapes.
- Engineers use massive steel __ to hold the slide segments together, ensuring the joints are perfectly flush so you don't feel a bump.
- Water is a powerful __ that allows gravity to pull you down with very little resistance.
Section 3: The Unscramble Riddle
Unscramble the bold words to solve the riddle below!
- When you go around a tight turn, TERICNPTAL ( ) force keeps you pressed against the outer wall.
- The force pulling you toward the Earth is VIGYART ( _ ).
- The smooth material used for slides is GERSALFIB ( _ ).
RIDDLE: Why did the physicist refuse to go on the water slide? ANSWER: Because he had too much " " energy and didn't want to lose it! (Hint: Use the first unscrambled word's first 9 letters!)
Section 4: Game - Pipeline Tycoon
You are the Lead Engineer at Great Wolf Lodge. You have 100 "Power Points" to design a new slide. Balance your points to create the ultimate ride!
The Goal: Reach a