In order to get the true velocity, the velocity is assumed to be zero at the top of the motion and the velocity curve is integrated over one-half a cycle. The result is shown as the red line in the figure with the scale on the right-hand y axis. The Rainbow goes around in a circle and the motion should be close to that of the simple harmonic oscillator. The period is measured as the time for one complete cycle of motion. The curve fits very well except near the top of the motion as the Rainbow rises.
Extra force is needed to push the ride to the top which creates a change in the acceleration.
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