Physics in action

THE SCIENCE BEHIND A ROLLER-COASTER RIDE 

There’s something magical about a roller coaster. The slow, suspenseful climb… the heart-stopping drop… the twists that make you scream and laugh at the same time. But behind all that thrill lies pure science. Roller coasters are not just amusement rides — they are living demonstrations of physics in action.

Let’s explore the fascinating science behind a roller coaster.

1. It All Starts with Energy

The secret of a roller coaster lies in energy transformation.

When the train is pulled to the top of the first hill, it gains potential energy. The higher it goes, the more potential energy it stores. This energy depends on:

●Height

●Mass

●Gravity

As the coaster drops, that stored potential energy converts into kinetic energy (energy of motion). The steeper the drop, the faster the train moves.

In simple terms:

Top of the hill = Maximum potential energy

Bottom of the hill = Maximum kinetic energy

This continuous exchange between potential and kinetic energy keeps the coaster moving.

2. Gravity: The Invisible Engine

Unlike cars, most roller coasters do not have engines pushing them after the first climb. Once the train is released, gravity does the rest of the work.

Gravity pulls the train downward, accelerating it. The design ensures that each successive hill is slightly lower than the first one. This compensates for energy lost due to:

●Friction

●Air resistance

Without gravity, the ride wouldn’t exist!

3. Newton’s Laws in Action

The principles discovered by Isaac Newton play a major role in roller coaster physics.

Newton’s First Law (Inertia)

When the coaster suddenly drops, your body wants to stay where it was — this creates that “falling” sensation in your stomach.

Newton’s Second Law (Force = Mass × Acceleration)

The faster the coaster accelerates, the greater the force you feel.

Newton’s Third Law (Action–Reaction)

When the coaster pushes you into your seat, your body pushes back with equal force.

4. The Thrill of G-Forces

Ever felt pressed into your seat during a sharp turn? That’s due to G-forces.

G-force measures acceleration compared to normal gravity:

1G = Normal gravity

2G = Twice your body weight

Negative Gs = “Air-time” feeling (you lift slightly from your seat)

Engineers carefully design coasters to ensure G-forces remain thrilling but safe.

5. Centripetal Force and Loops

How do riders stay in their seats during a loop?

When the coaster enters a vertical loop, centripetal force keeps it moving in a circular path. The speed at the top of the loop must be high enough to counteract gravity.

Modern loops are not perfectly circular — they are shaped like a teardrop (called a clothoid loop). This design reduces extreme forces and ensures a smoother ride.

6. Friction and Air Resistance

Not all energy stays in the system. Some is lost due to:

●Friction between wheels and track

●Air resistance

That’s why:

●The first hill is always the tallest.

●The coaster cannot go higher than its starting point without extra power.

7. Engineering and Safety

Behind every thrilling ride is advanced engineering. Companies like Six Flags and Cedar Fair operate some of the world’s most complex coasters, designed with computer simulations and rigorous safety checks.

Modern roller coasters use:

●Magnetic brakes

●Steel tracks for precision

●Computer monitoring systems

Every twist and turn is calculated scientifically.

🎢 Did You Know?

●The world’s fastest roller coaster is Formula Rossa at Ferrari World Abu Dhabi. It reaches speeds of about 240 km/h in just a few seconds!

●Roller coaster loops were once circular, but they caused extreme G-forces. Modern teardrop-shaped loops are much safer.

●Wooden roller coasters are known for their classic rattling sound and unique vibration experience.

●Your “stomach drop” feeling happens because your internal organs momentarily experience near weightlessness.

Final Thought

A roller coaster is more than an amusement ride — it’s a moving physics laboratory. From gravity and energy transformation to Newton’s laws and G-forces, every second of the ride is a scientific masterpiece.

So next time you’re climbing that steep first hill, remember — you’re not just screaming…

You’re experiencing science in motion. 

A Global Voice for Peace and Cooperation

🌍 THE UNITED NATIONS (UN)

The United Nations (UN) is one of the most important international organisations in the world. Established in 1945 after the devastation of the Second World War, the UN was created to promote peace, foster international cooperation, and prevent future conflicts. Today, it stands as a symbol of global unity, bringing nations together to solve problems that transcend borders.

📜 Why Was the UN Formed?

The horrors of World War II convinced world leaders that a strong international body was needed to maintain peace. The UN officially came into existence on 24 October 1945, when 51 countries signed its founding charter in San Francisco.

It replaced the earlier League of Nations, which had failed to prevent global conflict.

Since then, UN Day has been celebrated every year on 24 October to mark its founding.

⏳ How Many Years Since the UN Was Founded?

The United Nations was founded on 24 October 1945.

As of 2026, it has completed 81 years since its establishment.

For over eight decades, the United Nations has played a central role in global diplomacy, peacekeeping, humanitarian aid, and sustainable development.

🏛 Administration of the United Nations

The administration of the United Nations is primarily handled by the Secretariat, one of its six principal organs.

👤 The Secretary-General

The Secretariat is led by the Secretary-General, who acts as:

●Chief administrative officer

●Diplomat and mediator

●Spokesperson of the UN

●Coordinator of UN operations worldwide

The current Secretary-General is António Guterres, who assumed office in 2017.

The Secretary-General is appointed by the General Assembly upon the recommendation of the Security Council and usually serves a five-year term.

🏢 The Secretariat

The Secretariat carries out the day-to-day work of the UN. Its responsibilities include:

●Organising international conferences and meetings

●Conducting research and preparing reports

●Managing peacekeeping operations

●Implementing decisions taken by the General ●Assembly and Security Council

●Overseeing humanitarian and development programmes 

The Secretariat employs thousands of international civil servants working across various UN offices worldwide, including the headquarters in New York City.

⚖ Administrative Structure

The UN administrative system includes:

●Under-Secretaries-General and Assistant Secretaries-General heading different departments

●Departments dedicated to political affairs, peace operations, economic development, legal matters, communications, and more

●Regional commissions and field missions operating in different parts of the world

The UN functions on principles of neutrality and international representation — its staff members serve the global community, not their individual countries.

🌍 A Global Administrative Network

With offices in cities like Geneva, Vienna, and Nairobi, the UN administration operates across continents, coordinating programmes that impact millions of people.

For 81 years, the United Nations administration has worked as the engine behind global cooperation — quietly managing complex operations to promote peace, development, and human dignity worldwide. 

🏢 Headquarters and Membership

The UN headquarters is located in New York City, with additional major offices in Geneva, Vienna, and Nairobi.

Today, the UN has 193 member countries — almost every recognised nation in the world. Each member state has a voice in discussions and decision-making.

🏛 Main Organs of the UN

The UN has six principal organs:

●General Assembly – All member countries participate and have equal voting power.

●Security Council – Responsible for maintaining international peace and security.

●Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) – Focuses on economic, social, and environmental issues.

●International Court of Justice (ICJ) – Settles legal disputes between countries.

●Secretariat – Carries out the day-to-day work of the UN.

●Trusteeship Council – Originally established to oversee trust territories (now inactive).

The Secretary-General, the chief administrative officer of the UN, leads the Secretariat and plays a key diplomatic role in world affairs.

🌱 Key Areas of Work

Over the decades, the UN has expanded its work beyond peacekeeping. Its major areas include:

🕊 Peacekeeping missions in conflict zones

🌍 Human rights protection

🌡 Climate action

👶 Child welfare and education

🏥 Global health

🍞 Poverty reduction

Several specialised agencies work under the UN system, including:

●World Health Organization (WHO)

●United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF)

●United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO)

●International Monetary Fund (IMF)

●World Bank

🎯 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

In 2015, the UN launched the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) — a global call to end poverty, protect the planet, and ensure peace and prosperity for all by 2030. These goals address issues such as clean water, gender equality, quality education, and climate action.

🇮🇳 India and the United Nations

India has been an active member of the UN since its founding in 1945. The country has contributed significantly to UN peacekeeping missions across the world and continues to advocate for global cooperation, sustainable development, and reform of the Security Council.

🌟 Why the UN Matters Today

In an interconnected world, challenges like climate change, pandemics, wars, and economic instability cannot be solved by one nation alone. The UN provides a platform where countries can discuss differences, negotiate solutions, and work together for the greater good.

Although it faces criticism and challenges, the United Nations remains humanity’s most ambitious effort to maintain international peace and build a better future for all.

✨ Did You Know?

●The UN flag features a world map surrounded by olive branches, symbolising peace.

●The International Court of Justice is located in The Hague, Netherlands.

●The UN has been awarded the Nobel Peace Prize multiple times (including its peacekeeping forces).

The United Nations stands as a reminder that despite differences in language, culture, and politics, nations can unite under a shared vision — a peaceful and sustainable world. 

A Game of Strength, Strategy, and Team Spirit

TUG-OF-WAR 

Few games are as simple, exciting, and universally loved as Tug-of-war. With just a sturdy rope and two determined teams, this traditional contest transforms into a thrilling test of strength, coordination, and unity. Played in schools, villages, festivals, and even at international championships, Tug-of-war continues to bring people together across generations.

What Is Tug-of-War?

Tug-of-war is a team sport in which two groups pull on opposite ends of a rope. The goal is simple: pull the opposing team across a marked line or move the rope a certain distance in your direction.

Though it looks straightforward, the game demands much more than brute strength. Success depends on teamwork, timing, communication, and strategy.

Why is it called Tug-of-war?

The name Tug of war comes directly from the action that defines the game.

Breaking Down the Term

●Tug means to pull with a sudden or strong effort.

●War refers to a contest or struggle between two opposing sides.

So, Tug-of-war literally means “a pulling contest between two sides.”

The phrase has been used in English since at least the 16th century. Originally, it wasn’t limited to the rope game. It was also used metaphorically to describe any intense struggle between two forces — such as political rivals or opposing ideas.

Why “of” in the Middle?

The structure “X-of-war” was common in older English to describe types of battles or contests (for example, “trial of arms”). In this case, tug-of-war simply means a war (contest) of tugging.

A Figurative Meaning

Even today, we use “tug-of-war” beyond sports. For example:

A tug-of-war between heart and mind

A political tug-of-war

A legal tug-of-war

It describes any situation where two sides are pulling in opposite directions.

So the name perfectly captures the spirit of the game — a contest of strength, strategy, and determination where two teams literally pull against each other until one side prevails.

A Glimpse into History

Tug-of-war is one of the oldest recorded competitive games in the world. Ancient carvings and records suggest that versions of the game existed in:

●Ancient Egypt

●Greece

●India

●China

The sport was even part of the modern Olympic Games from 1900 to 1920. Today, it is governed internationally by the Tug of War International Federation (TWIF), which organises world championships and promotes the sport globally.

Rules of the Game

While informal matches are common at picnics or school events, official competitions follow strict rules:

●Teams usually consist of eight players.

●The rope has markings to indicate boundaries.

●Teams must pull in coordination after a referee’s signal.

●The team that pulls the rope a designated distance wins the round.

●Foot placement, body angle, and rhythm are crucial in competitive play.

Skills Required

Tug-of-war develops both physical and mental strength. Key skills include:

●Upper and lower body strength

●Grip endurance

●Balance and stability

●Team synchronization

●Strategic positioning

Often, the strongest player stands at the back (known as the “anchor”), providing stability and support to the team.

Tug-of-War in India

In India, Tug-of-war is a popular feature at school sports days, community festivals, and village fairs. It is especially common during traditional celebrations and Independence Day events. The simplicity of the game makes it accessible to people of all ages.

India also participates in international Tug-of-war competitions under the guidance of TWIF.

More Than Just a Game

Beyond competition, Tug-of-war symbolises unity. It teaches important life lessons:

●The power of teamwork

●The importance of coordination

●Trust among teammates

●Collective effort over individual strength

In many cultures, it is even played as a symbolic ritual representing the struggle between opposing forces—such as good and evil, or winter and summer.

Health Benefits

Regular participation in Tug-of-war can:

●Improve muscle strength

●Enhance cardiovascular endurance

●Boost teamwork skills

●Increase confidence

●Promote discipline

Because it involves full-body engagement, it is considered an excellent group fitness activity.

A Timeless Tradition

In a world dominated by digital entertainment, Tug-of-war remains refreshingly simple. It requires no expensive equipment, no technology—just a rope, determination, and the spirit of togetherness.

Whether played competitively on an international stage or casually at a school playground, Tug-of-war continues to pull people together—quite literally—reminding us that sometimes the strongest force is unity.

Did You Know?

Tug-of-war was once an Olympic sport and may one day return to the global stage as interest in traditional sports continues to grow.

The Japanese Healing Therapy

REIKI 

In a fast-paced world filled with stress and constant activity, many people are turning toward gentle, natural methods of healing. One such practice is Reiki, a Japanese energy healing therapy that focuses on restoring balance within the body, mind, and spirit. Simple yet profound, Reiki is based on the idea that a universal life force energy flows through all living beings.

What Is Reiki?

The word Reiki comes from two Japanese words:

Rei – meaning “universal”

Ki – meaning “life energy” (similar to prana in India or chi in China)

Reiki practitioners believe that when this life energy is low or blocked, a person is more likely to feel stress or fall ill. When the energy flows freely, it promotes relaxation, healing, and overall well-being.

Origin and Founder

Reiki was developed in the early 20th century by Mikao Usui, a Japanese spiritual teacher. According to tradition, Usui experienced a spiritual awakening during a meditation retreat on Mount Kurama in Japan. After this experience, he began teaching and practicing Reiki healing, and the method gradually spread across Japan and later to the West.

Today, Reiki is practiced worldwide as a complementary therapy.

How Does Reiki Work?

During a Reiki session:

●The recipient lies down fully clothed.

●The practitioner places their hands lightly on or just above specific areas of the body.

●Energy is believed to flow through the practitioner’s hands to the recipient.

Reiki is not massage. There is no pressure or manipulation of muscles. Instead, it is a gentle, calming experience. Many people report feeling warmth, tingling sensations, deep relaxation, or emotional release.

Benefits of Reiki

While scientific research on Reiki is still developing, many people experience positive effects such as:

●Reduced stress and anxiety

●Improved sleep

●Relief from emotional tension

●Support during illness or recovery

●Enhanced sense of peace and clarity

Hospitals and wellness centers in several countries even offer Reiki as a complementary therapy alongside conventional medical treatments.

Reiki Principles

Mikao Usui taught simple ethical principles to guide practitioners. They begin with:

●Just for today, do not worry.

●Just for today, do not anger.

●Be grateful.

●Work diligently.

●Be kind to others.

These principles emphasise emotional balance and mindful living.

Is Reiki a Religion?

No. Reiki is a spiritual practice but not a religion. It does not require belief in any doctrine. People of all faiths and backgrounds practice and receive Reiki.

A Gentle Path to Healing

Reiki reminds us that healing is not only physical but also emotional and spiritual. In a world that often seeks quick fixes, Reiki offers a quiet, compassionate approach — one that encourages stillness, balance, and connection to the universal life energy within us.

Whether one views it as energy work, relaxation therapy, or spiritual practice, Reiki continues to bring comfort and calm to millions around the world.

Climb the ladder of success

WHY COMPARISON HOLDS YOU BACK

One quiet morning, a young craftsman walked into the home of an old philosopher. His shoulders were tight, his thoughts heavier than the tools he carried each day.

“I always feel behind,” he confessed. “Everyone around me seems more skilled, more successful, further ahead. No matter how hard I work, it never feels like enough.”

The philosopher listened without interrupting. He simply nodded and led the young man into a small workshop at the back of his house. Sunlight streamed through a narrow window. Wooden benches lined the walls. And in the corner stood a simple wooden ladder.

“Climb,” the philosopher said gently.

Though confused, the craftsman obeyed. He climbed halfway up the ladder.

“Now look around you,” the philosopher instructed.

From that height, the room looked different. He could see the grain of the wooden beams, the neat arrangement of tools, and dust floating like tiny sparks in the sunlight.

“What do you see?” asked the philosopher.

“My surroundings,” the young man replied. “Everything looks clearer from here.”

The philosopher nodded. “Good. Now compare your height to the ladder.”

The craftsman frowned. “Compare myself… to the ladder? That doesn’t make sense.”

A soft smile appeared on the philosopher’s face. 

“Exactly,” he said. “A ladder exists to help you climb, not to compete with you. Its purpose is to support your progress — not to define your value.”

The young man fell silent.

“Yet,” the philosopher continued, “people turn life into a ladder of comparison. They keep looking sideways — measuring themselves against others. But growth is not about standing higher than someone else. It’s about moving upward from where you began.”

The words settled slowly, like calm water after a storm.

“So the real question isn’t, ‘Am I ahead of them?’” the craftsman asked.

The philosopher shook his head.

“It’s, ‘What is my next step?’”

The young man carefully climbed down the ladder. The workshop looked the same. The world outside hadn’t changed. But something inside him had.

For the first time in months, he felt lighter.

He realised that progress wasn’t a race against others. It was a quiet journey upward — one step at a time. 🪜

From that day on, whenever comparison tried to steal his peace, he asked himself one simple question:

What is my next step?

And with each step he took, steady and focused, he discovered something surprising —

When you stop comparing yourself to others, growth becomes natural, meaningful, and deeply your own.

Lesson:

Measure your progress against who you were yesterday — not against who someone else is today. Focus on your next step, and let improvement unfold naturally.

The Golden Giants of the Gourd Family

🎃PUMPKINS🎃

Pumpkins are large, round fruits—often mistaken for vegetables—that belong to the gourd family, scientifically known as the genus Cucurbita. They come in over 40 varieties, ranging from tiny decorative miniatures to massive field pumpkins weighing hundreds of kilograms. While bright orange is the most familiar colour, pumpkins can also be green, white, yellow, and even striped.

Every part of the pumpkin is edible—the flesh, seeds, flowers, and even the tender leaves. Besides being delicious and versatile, pumpkins are packed with nutrients, making them both a festive favourite and a healthy addition to daily meals.

🌍 A Journey Through History

Pumpkins originated in Central America and were cultivated more than 7,000 years ago by early farming communities in regions that are now part of Mexico. They were a staple food of Native Americans, who roasted the flesh, dried and ate the seeds, and even used the hard shells as bowls and storage containers. Some communities crafted musical instruments from dried pumpkins.

European explorers carried pumpkin seeds to Europe in the 16th century, from where the crop gradually spread across Asia and other parts of the world. Today, pumpkins are grown on every continent except Antarctica.

🧡 Nutritional Powerhouse

Pumpkins are about 90–95% water, which makes them light despite their large size. They are:

Rich in Vitamin A (from beta-carotene), essential for good vision and immunity

A good source of fibre, aiding digestion

Packed with antioxidants, which help fight harmful free radicals

Low in calories, making them ideal for healthy diets

Pumpkin seeds are equally nutritious. They contain protein, healthy fats, magnesium, zinc, and iron. Roasted pumpkin seeds make a healthy snack.

🌾 Production in India

India is among the world’s leading pumpkin producers. The crop is widely grown in states such as:

●Uttar Pradesh

●Bihar

●West Bengal

●Odisha

●Madhya Pradesh

●Chhattisgarh

●Assam

●Gujarat

Pumpkins thrive in warm, humid climates and are often cultivated along riverbanks and in fertile alluvial soil. The crop is generally harvested twice a year—during the monsoon and winter seasons.

🍽️ Pumpkin Around the World

Pumpkins are celebrated in cuisines across the globe:

●Italy: Pumpkin-filled ravioli and creamy risotto are autumn favourites.

●United States: Pumpkin pie is a traditional dessert during Thanksgiving, a major festival celebrated across the United States. Pumpkin soup and roasted pumpkin are also popular.

●Japan: Kabocha, a sweet Japanese pumpkin, is used in tempura, stews, and desserts in Japan.

●Mexico: Pumpkin seeds, called pepitas, are roasted or ground into sauces like mole verde.

🇮🇳 Indian Regional Specialities

In India, pumpkin is used in a variety of traditional dishes:

●Kashmir: Al hachi – a dry pumpkin preparation cooked with sun-dried turnips and spices.

●Bihar & Uttar Pradesh: Khatta meetha kaddu – a sweet and sour curry often served with poori.

●West Bengal: Kumror chokka – a spiced pumpkin dish with potatoes and chickpeas.

●Kerala: Erissery – pumpkin cooked with coconut and green chillies in a thick gravy.

●Assam: Poita kumura – mashed pumpkin mixed with mustard oil and chillies, eaten with rice.

🎃 Pumpkins and Festivals

Pumpkins are strongly associated with the festival of Halloween, especially in the United States and Europe. During Halloween, pumpkins are carved into decorative lanterns known as jack-o’-lanterns. The tradition originated from Irish folklore and later became popular in America.

In India, pumpkin is also used in religious rituals and traditional ceremonies in many regions.

🌼 How Pumpkins Grow

Pumpkins grow on creeping vines with large green leaves and bright yellow flowers. They require plenty of sunlight and regular watering. Pumpkins are pollinated mainly by bees—without these hardworking insects, pumpkin plants would not produce fruit.

After pollination, the fruit develops over several weeks, gradually turning its characteristic colour as it ripens.

🌟 Interesting Facts

●Pumpkins are technically fruits because they develop from flowers and contain seeds.

●The world record for the heaviest pumpkin has exceeded 1,200 kilograms!

●Pumpkin flowers are edible and are often stuffed or fried in many cultures.

●Pumpkins can be stored for months if kept in a cool, dry place.

🌱 A Fruit for Health and Tradition

From ancient Central American farms to Indian kitchens and global festivals, pumpkins have travelled a long and fascinating journey. Nutritious, versatile, and culturally significant, this humble fruit continues to brighten plates and celebrations around the world.

Whether in a comforting curry, a creamy soup, or a festive pie, pumpkins truly deserve their place as the golden giants of the gourd family. 🎃

The Niagara Falls of India

CHITRAKOTE FALLS 

Often called the “Niagara Falls of India,” Chitrakote Falls is one of the widest and most spectacular waterfalls in the country. Located near Jagdalpur in the Bastar district of Chhattisgarh, this majestic waterfall is a breathtaking example of nature’s grandeur.

A Horseshoe Wonder

Chitrakote Falls is formed by the Indravati River, which plunges from a height of about 30 meters (98 feet). What makes it especially remarkable is its horseshoe shape, closely resembling the famous Niagara Falls in North America.

During the monsoon season, the waterfall spreads across a width of nearly 300 meters, creating a thunderous roar and a misty spray that can be felt from a distance. The sight of muddy brown water cascading powerfully during the rains is both dramatic and awe-inspiring. In winter and summer, when the water turns clearer and calmer, the falls appear serene and picturesque.

Why It Is Called the Niagara of India

●It is the widest waterfall in India.

●It has a curved, horseshoe shape similar to Niagara Falls.

●The powerful flow during monsoon creates a comparable roaring sound and mist effect.

●Though smaller in height than Niagara, its beauty and scale make it equally captivating.

Best Time to Visit

The ideal time to witness Chitrakote Falls in its full glory is between July and October, during and just after the monsoon. The surrounding green forests and the dramatic water flow make the landscape truly magical.

Evenings are especially beautiful, as the falls are sometimes illuminated, adding to their charm.

Cultural and Local Significance

The waterfall lies in the culturally rich Bastar region, home to tribal communities with vibrant traditions and festivals. Visitors often combine their trip to Chitrakote Falls with exploration of Bastar’s handicrafts, temples, and natural caves.

A Natural Treasure

Chitrakote Falls is not just a tourist attraction; it is a symbol of India’s diverse natural beauty. From its roaring monsoon power to its calm winter elegance, it offers a changing spectacle throughout the year.

For nature lovers, photographers, and adventure seekers, Chitrakote Falls stands as one of India’s most stunning natural wonders—truly deserving the title, “The Niagara Falls of India.”

🌊 Did You Know?

●Chitrakote Falls is formed by the Indravati River, which eventually joins the Godavari River.

●During peak monsoon, the waterfall becomes so wide that it looks like a massive curtain of water stretching across the horizon.

●In summer, when the water flow reduces, small rock islands become visible near the falls. Visitors can even go boating close to the base (when conditions are safe).

●The surrounding Bastar region is known for its tribal art, especially Dhokra metal craft and traditional wooden handicrafts.

●The waterfall is sometimes called “Mini Niagara”, but during heavy rains, many visitors feel it looks just as grand as Niagara Falls!