Symposium "Physics of Amusement Parks" and Efteling visit
On Friday, May 12, the Applied Physics (TN) program organised an interesting symposium, followed by a practical application on Saturday at the enchanting Efteling amusement park.
This unique opportunity allowed TN students to experience their theoretical knowledge in practice and discover previously unseen technological aspects. In total, 170 enthusiastic Applied Physics students, along with teachers and study advisors, had inspiring days where education and entertainment went hand in hand.
SYMPOSIUM UNVEILS MYSTERIES OF Applied PHYSICS IN AMUSEMENT PARKS
The symposium on Friday provided a platform for students to delve deeper into various aspects of applied physics and enhance their understanding of the physics behind amusement parks. One of the intriguing questions addressed was why a roller coaster loop is never fully circular. Pim Dekker and Mees Flapper systematically deduced the accelerations experienced in a roller coaster, explaining, among other things, why loops have the shape of inverted droplets. Optical illusions, as experienced in Efteling's Villa Volta, were also discussed by Herman Offerhaus. Students were challenged to think about the creation of optical illusions and how applied physics is used to create these unique experiences. Imre van Veldhoven provided a historical overview of puppet control, such as in the Indische Waterlilies and Fata Morgana, which was a challenge in an era without computers and electronic controls. Lastly, Sander Huisman concluded with a humorous overview of various aspects of fluid physics in amusement parks.
On Saturday, the students had the opportunity to see the physics aspects in practice during a delightful day at the Efteling. Together with their teachers and study advisors, they experienced firsthand how technical principles are applied in different attractions.
The organisation of this inspiring event was led by Sissi de Beer, with valuable support from Edwin Lodder, Anita Weise, and the study association Arago. Their dedication and effort ensured that applied physics captured the imagination and provided an inspiring experience for all participants.
The Applied Physics program would like to thank all involved for their dedication and enthusiasm in making this event a great success.
