MATH AA IA REVIEW

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Modeling the Design of a Beginner Skateboard Ramp Using Quadratic
Functions

Mathematics Analysis & Approaches

Standard Level Internal Assessment

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Introduction

The 2024 Olympic skateboarding competition sparked my interest in the sport,

specifically how skaters adapt to various ramp designs. I have since attempted skateboarding
myself. As a beginner, I had one immediate problem: ramp steepness. It was hard to balance, and
trying to control movement seemed impossible. This piqued my interest in how ramp design
affects the learning curve of a skater, in this case, beginners like me.

A good ramp is a question of crucial importance in skateboarding since its slope,

curvature, and dimensions control the speed at which the riders accelerate, brake, and stabilize. A
too steep ramp presents challenge and danger, and a too flat ramp lacks sufficient momentum
required to propel forward. Most of the skateparks provide non-beginner ramps and hence
require balance between simplicity and challenge as far as enabling learning development is
concerned.

This prompted me to investigate the optimum ramp design for beginners. An optimum
ramp design should possess controlled acceleration, stability, and smooth movement. Tools such
as graphing software (Desmos and GeoGebra) and TI-48 calculator will be used to graph and
analyze different quadratic functions that represent ramp designs. With testing through varying
slopes and their effects on movement, I will select the most convenient ramp design for myself as
a complete beginner with least risk and maximum ease in handling. This will be achieved
mathematically, where I will vary parabola curves and respective angles of descent and find the
most convenient ramp design.

Thus, with mathematical modeling, this investigation aim is to determine the ideal
skateboard ramp for beginners using quadratic functions and trigonometry. In terms of parabolic
curves as well as respective angles of declivity, the investigation explores the best design of the
ramp that is capable of allowing controlled acceleration, stability, as well as learnability.

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Mathematical Concepts

The mathematical framework of my investigation primarily revolves around quadratic

functions and trigonometry, both of which are central to the research on the optimum
skateboard ramp design:

●​ Quadratic Functions: The parabolic nature of the ramp is modeled by the function
y = ax2 + bx + c. Because the vertex will be the lowest point on the ramp, I will determine
the function parameters solving for a and b so that it will provide an optimal curvature for
guided descent.
●​ Trigonometry (Angle of Descent): The ramp's slope is a consideration in acceleration
and balance. By employing inverse tangent function θ = tan-1(m), and m being the slope
at a specific point, I will get the angle of descent using the various values of b to
determine if the ramp is in the ideal range for novice skaters.
●​ Differentiation: It is employed to calculate the ramp's slope at the critical points. It is
employed to verify that the selected angle ensures controlled acceleration, hence making
the ramp safe to use for new users.

Assumptions Used in the Model's design

In an attempt to simplify calculations and emphasize the mathematical relationship

between ramp steepness and useability, the following assumptions are employed:

●​ The ramp traces a perfect parabola: Ramps in real life are not necessarily parabolic,
but for mathematical purposes, the ramp is considered to trace a smooth quadratic curve
y = ax2 + bx + c.
●​ The vertex is the bottom of the ramp: This makes the shape symmetrical, and it is
simpler to compute and keep balance during descent and ascent.
●​ No air resistance or friction: While actual skaters have to deal with friction on the ramp
surface and air drag, these are not considered in the math equation so that only the effect
of the slope on motion can be emphasized. It is assumed that the acceleration of the
skater is a function of the angle of descent only.
●​ Uniform thickness material: It is presupposed that the ramp is uniformly thick and with
material properties in which structural variation is not present on the mathematical model.

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Background Information

Figure 1

Figure 1 shows a form of ramp that is used in most skateparks. This is 4.1 meters high at
the top and 0.5 meters at the bottom as a minimum height, forming a curved shape which gives
momentum to the skateboarders. Vert ramps are the name given to skateboard ramps that are 50
degrees in slope. The average length of a vert ramp would be around 10m to 24m. Since the
highest of my skateboard ramp is 3.6m, the longest one would then be around 10m. The shape of
the ramp is not a straight incline but rather follows a parabolic trajectory, which helps in
maintaining speed and control while reducing sudden impacts.

To analyze the ramp's structure, quadratic functions are used because they effectively
model the smooth, continuous curvature seen in skatepark ramps. By representing the ramp in
terms of a quadratic equation (y = ax2 + bx + c), we are able to derive important characteristics
such as the vertex (the minimum point), entry height and exit height, and the angle of descent.
All these are imperative in making sure the ramp is functionally steep with sufficient momentum
but not hazardous or too steep for new participants.

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Mathematical Model : Quadratic Function

A quadratic model was chosen because it provides a smooth transition between ascent and
descent, crucial for maintaining momentum. Other models, such as cubic functions or quartic
functions, were considered but discarded since they introduce unnecessary inflection points that
could destabilize beginners.
Quadratic Functions: The ramp follows a parabolic curve, modeled by the equation:
y = ax2 + bx + c
Where:
●​ y represents the height of the ramp at any given horizontal distance 𝑥.
●​ a determines the curvature of the ramp.
●​ b influences the steepness of the ramp’s entry and exit.
●​ c represents the minimum height of the ramp.

When solving for the roots of a quadratic equation, we use the quadratic formula:
2
−𝑏 ± 𝑏 − 4𝑎𝑐
x= 2𝑎
Where the term (b2 - 4ac) is called the discriminant (∆). The value of the discriminant shows how
many roots f(x) has:
●​ If b2 - 4ac > 0 then the quadratic function has two distinct real roots (parabola intersects
the x-axis at two points).
●​ If b2 - 4ac = 0 then the quadratic function has one repeated real root (parabola touches the
x-axis at a single point, meaning the vertex lies on the x-axis).

Coordinate point of V
2
𝑏 (𝑏 −4𝑎𝑐)
To show that the coordinates of the V is − 2𝑎
,− 4𝑎
, the x-value of v is substituted into the
2
equation of y = ax + bx + c to derive the expression of the value of y of the vertex.

−𝑏 2 −𝑏
𝑦 = 𝑎( 2𝑎
) + 𝑏( 2𝑎
)+𝑐
2 2
𝑏 𝑏
= 𝑎( 2 )− 2𝑎
+ 𝑐
4𝑎
2 2
𝑏 𝑏
= 4𝑎
− 2𝑎
+ 𝑐
2 2
𝑏 −2𝑏 +4𝑎𝑐
= 4𝑎
2
−𝑏 +4𝑎𝑐
= 4𝑎
2
(𝑏 4𝑎𝑐)
𝑦= − 4𝑎

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Finding a relationship between a, b & c

The y-coordinate of the vertex can be seen to be zero from (figure 1), it is possible to derive an
expression for c in terms of a & b by equating the y-coordinate of the vertex to zero because V
lies on the x-axis.
2
(𝑏 4𝑎𝑐)
𝑦= − 4𝑎
2
−𝑏 +4𝑎𝑐
0= 4𝑎

2 2
=− 4𝑎𝑏 + 16𝑎 𝑐
2 2
−4𝑎𝑏 +16𝑎 𝑐
= −4𝑎

To determine the coefficient a, using the given height difference. The height of the vertex is 4.1,
and the minimum height is 0.5, giving:

4.1 - 0.5 = 3.6

The quadratic function takes the form:
y = ax2 + bx + 3.6

This means that a key point on the curve is A(3.6, 0), allowing us to derive a in terms of b.
Substituting x = 3.6 into the quadratic discriminant condition for a single repeated root:
2
𝑏 − 4𝑎(3. 6) = 0
2
𝑏 − 14. 4𝑎 = 0
2
𝑏 = 14. 4𝑎
2
𝑏
𝑎= 14.4

By substituting a and c into the original quadratic function:

y = ax2 + bx + c
2
𝑏
y= 14.4
x2 + bx + 3.6

The quadratic function is now expressed in terms of b.

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Angle of Descent

The angle of descent (θ) refers to the angle at which a surface slopes downward relative to a
horizontal plane. In the context of my skateboard ramp, it is the steepness of the ramp and how it
impacts the skater's speed and momentum. The best skateboard ramps should be close to 50
degrees for beginners since this angle provides an ideal descent level with control.
ℎ𝑒𝑖𝑔ℎ𝑡 𝑑𝑖𝑓𝑓𝑒𝑟𝑒𝑛𝑐𝑒
It is found using: tanθ = ℎ𝑜𝑟𝑖𝑧𝑜𝑛𝑡𝑎𝑙 𝑑𝑖𝑠𝑡𝑎𝑛𝑐𝑒

Where:

Height difference = Difference between maximum and minimum heights

Horizontal distance = Entry-to-exit distance

Changing the b value

The range of b values (-0.9, -1.2, and -1.4) were selected to observe the effect of varying values
on the slope of the ramp and achieve a working design. The lower value of b produces a shallow
slope that is hard for skaters to maintain, whereas a larger value of b produces a steep ramp,
which may be dangerous.

b Solve for y y Angle of Descent θ

2
-0.9 (−0.9) 2 2.76 40.61
y= 14.4
𝑥 − 0. 9𝑥 + 3. 6
2
-1.2 (−1.2) 2 2.5 47.73
y= 14.4
𝑥 − 1. 2𝑥 + 3. 6
2
-1.4 (−1.4) 2 1.26 54.88
y= 14.4
𝑥 − 1. 4𝑥 + 3. 6

Figure 2

In figure 2, the angle of the triangle where b = 0.9 is 40.61 degrees when solved for . the equation
for this is:

2
(−0.9)
𝑦= 14.4
− 0. 9 + 3. 6 ≈ 2. 76
3.6 - 2.76 = 0.84
tan-1(0.84)≈ 40. 61
θ ≈ 40. 61

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Analysis of Different Ramp Configurations

Figure 3 is a parabolic graph of a ramp with a descent angle of

-0.9, a gentle slope that is appropriate for smooth motion. The
parabola's vertex at about (8, 0.5) is the ramp's bottom where
the skater reaches maximum speed before it reaches the rise.
Points of entry and exit, designated at A (0, 3.6m) and B (16,
3.6m), establish a total horizontal travel distance of 16m. A
smooth curve, not a sharp one, is more suitable for a beginner's
skateboard ramp to encourage more stability and controlled
motion. Yet, the parabolic curve is not deep enough, and the
resulting fall is not quick enough to give the skater enough
momentum in order to get to the opposite side. Algebraically,
one can conclude that a shallower parabola is described by a
small absolute value of a, and hence a milder slope is formed,
which is suitable for beginners as it keeps the sudden
acceleration under control and from losing control. While this
provides maximum stability, the slower time of descent (16m)
restricts the accumulation of speed, perhaps needing extra effort
to ascend. A controlled slope is perfect for new users, but an
even shallower curve would not support steady motion, making
this ramp inefficient for practical use. Figure 3

The descent angle of 40.61° is derived from a -0.9 slope,

making it too shallow for efficient momentum generation.
It is not a functional skateboard ramp, as it is not steep
enough to create enough acceleration to keep the skaters
moving. The 40.61° decline angle is too flat for a functional
skateboard ramp, with a 0.6m vertical drop over a 0.7m
horizontal distance, the gradual slope produces excessive
friction and energy loss. The ratio of slope
◦ 0.6
𝑡𝑎𝑛(40. 61 ) = 0.7
verifies the gentle slope, keeping skaters
from developing enough momentum to ride the other side of
the ramp effectively. More slope is needed in order to sustain
the motion, making this configuration unsuitable for an
operational ramp since skaters can stop before the transition.
Figure 4

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 This is a parabolic curve of a ramp of -1.4 angle of descent,
steeper and dynamic setup. The parabola with A (0,5) and B
(10,0) showing its entry and exit points. The V of this
skateboard ramp is (5.15), this indicates that the length
between A and B is 10.3m, this is a good length for a
skateboard ramp. Though, this parabolic form can be a
problem since the steepness at A and B indicates a quick
change of gradient, which makes landing unstable,
particularly for learners. The horizontal distance between
points A and B determines if enough momentum is acquired
to proceed through the transition. When the parabola is too
sharp, the skater can be subjected to excessive acceleration,
increasing the risk of losing control prior to crossing over to
the other side.

Figure 5

A 51.65degree descent angle can allow for more

acceleration but is susceptible to instability in
inexperienced users through rapid slope changes.
With a more extreme slope than in the first example, this
ramp enables skaters to go faster with less work.
The steeper angle increases acceleration and allows the
skater to have an easier time completing a full cycle.
However, the parabola is relatively sudden in this
instance, and as such, the slope between the horizontal
portion and the vertical portion of the ramp is very steep.
The sudden curvature poses issues to beginning skaters
because it has a tendency to increase instability when
entering and exiting. Therefore, though this setup
provides greater momentum than a 40.61° ramp, it still
suits skilled skaters and not beginners.

Figure 6

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 The graph depicts a parabolic ramp design, which provides
a gradual transition from the highest entry point to the
lowest exit. With points A (0,5) and C (12,0) defining the
ramp, the horizontal span of 12 meters allows for a more
gradual acceleration and deceleration, making it easier for
beginners to control their motion. The vertex (6,1.5)
represents the lowest point, ensuring that speed builds up
smoothly rather than abruptly. The curvature of this ramp
minimizes sudden changes in gradient, reducing instability
at both the entry and exit points. This makes it the preferred
choice for beginners, as it allows for controlled movement
while still providing enough momentum to perform
transitions safely.

Figure 7

The graph represents a linear ramp design with a 54.88°

angle of descent, connecting point A at approximately 3.4
meters in height to point C at ground level over a horizontal
distance of 12 meters. This design is particularly suitable
for beginners, as the straight incline ensures a consistent
and predictable descent. Unlike a parabolic ramp, which
introduces varying gradients that require advanced control,
this linear ramp allows new skaters to focus on maintaining
balance without sudden changes in curvature. Additionally,
the 1.1meter vertical drop provides a controlled yet effective
acceleration, giving beginners enough momentum to
practice stability without excessive speed buildup. The
uniform slope ensures that skaters can gradually adapt to
their descent, making it a great choice for those learning to
control their movements safely.

Figure 8

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First derivative to support b = - 1.2 as a good choice.
I will analyze the skateboard ramp’s behaviour using differentiation, which helps determine the
steepness and curvature of the ramp at different points. The function that describes the height of
the ramp is given by:
2
(−1.2) 2
y= 14.4
𝑥 − 1. 2𝑥 + 3. 6
1.44 2
y= 14.4
𝑥 − 1. 2𝑥 + 3. 6
2
y= 0. 1𝑥 − 1. 2𝑥 + 3. 6

2
I will use the entry and exit points by solving quadratic equation (0. 1𝑥 − 1. 2𝑥 + 3. 6) = 0
for x, where y = 0 represents the ramp touching the ground.

Solving for x (exit point)

2
−(−1.2)± (−1.2) −4(0.1)(3.6)
𝑥= 2(0.1)
1.2± 1.44−1.44
𝑥= 0.2
1.2± 0
𝑥= 0.2
1.2
𝑥 = 0.2
𝑥 = 6. 5
First derivative
𝑑𝑦 𝑑 2
𝑑𝑥
= 𝑑𝑥
(0. 1𝑥 − 1. 2𝑥 + 3. 6)

𝑑 𝑛 𝑛−1
Using the power rule ( 𝑑𝑥 𝑥 = 𝑛𝑥 ):
𝑑𝑦 2−1 1−1
𝑑𝑥
= (2 × 0. 1)𝑥 − (1. 2 × 1)𝑥 +0
𝑑𝑦
𝑑𝑥
= 0. 2𝑥 − 1. 2
At x = 0 (entry point):
𝑑𝑦
𝑑𝑥
= 0. 2(0) − 1. 2 =− 1. 2
−1 ◦
θ = 𝑡𝑎𝑛 (− 1. 2) ≈− 50. 2
At x = 6.5 (exit point):
𝑑𝑦
𝑑𝑥
= 0. 2(6. 5) − 1. 2 = 1. 3 − 1. 2 = 0. 1
−1 ◦
θ = 𝑡𝑎𝑛 (0. 1) ≈ 5. 7
◦
The entry angle of − 50. 2 provides a moderate steepness, allowing skaters to gain sufficient but
controlled momentum. At x = 6.5, the slope approaches zero, meaning the skater naturally slows
down before transitioning to the descent. This gradual change in slope is beneficial, as it helps
maintain control while ensuring flow through the ramp’s curvature and preventing excessive
speeds, making it more user-friendly for beginners.

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Conclusion

This investigation aimed to model an ideal skateboard ramp for beginners by analyzing the
parabolic shape and angle of descent. The findings indicate that an angle of descent around
47.73° (b = -1.2) is optimal, providing a balanced trade-off between momentum and stability.
This supports the hypothesis that a moderately curved ramp is best suited for learning. Compared
to steeper ramps, this design reduces instability while still allowing skaters to progress.

Evaluation

A key strength of this investigation is the use of the first derivative to justify that -1.2 is the
optimal angle, ensuring the most efficient slope. Also the accurate application of quadratic
functions to describe the curvature of the ramp. The equation of the parabola successfully
describes the smooth transition from horizontal movement to descent, maintaining continuity and
differentiability at key points. The angle of descent of -1.2 is an appropriate one to use, offering a
gentle slope that is commensurate with the best compromise between acceleration and control
and hence suitable for novice skaters. Also, the investigation of multiple configurations of the
ramp and comparing geometric properties enhances the strength of findings since it affirms the
utilization of the mathematically ideal design. Also, using the same coordinate system and
referencing proportionality among ramp length, height, and angle maintains an effective
mathematical investigation.

However, there are still some mathematical restrictions. The data presupposes a totally
smooth and unbroken quadratic function and does not factor in physical irregularities such as
frictional loss or variation of the ramp surface. Further, although the descent angle was modeled
in relation to its effect on velocity and control, elements of angular momentum and energy
conservation were not formally modeled, which could further tighten up the analysis. Another
limitation is that it's assumed all the skaters will trace the theoretical path prescribed by the
parabola and not deviate, while in practice skaters can dynamically change their center of mass
and change their path ever so slightly. Aside from making the mathematics more rigorous in the
work, additions would include parametric equations for the motion of a skater on the ramp to
offer greater precision in the analysis of velocity. The inclusion of calculus modeling, such as arc
length through integration or differential equations for acceleration, would be an addition to
enhance the accuracy of prediction of the motion of the skater. Having actual world data
collection from actually observing skateboarders riding actual ramps of varied curvature can help
deliver empirical support in order to validate the theory obtained.

Extensions
A natural extension of this investigation would be to explore the effect of different
polynomial functions in modeling the ramp curvature. While this study primarily focused on
parabolic equations, investigating cubic or quartic functions could provide deeper insight into the
trade-offs between smoothness and steepness in ramp design. The mathematical analysis could
be extended by determining the surface area of the ramp using integration, which would be
useful in estimating material costs for construction.

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 References
https://www.desmos.com/calculator/zlcqpgwgmp
https://www.desmos.com/calculator/a61mnygccf
https://www.desmos.com/calculator/ycqxcz4mlc
https://www.desmos.com/calculator/58kzlrm8ia

Sace. “Quadratics Investigation (Skateboard Ramp): Mathematical Methods - Year 11

SACE.” Thinkswap, 2023,
www.thinkswap.com/au/sace/mathematical-methods/year-11/quadratics-investigation-skate
board-ramp. Accessed 11 Mar. 2025.

Rowe, Elizabeth. Mathematical Investigation: Designing a Skateboard Ramp with

Quadratics - Quadratics Are a - Studocu, 2024,
www.studocu.com/en-au/document/adelaide-high-school/mathematical-methods/mathemat
ical-investigation-designing-a-skateboard-ramp-with-quadratics/72691743. Accessed 10
Mar. 2025.

Redmond, Kendra. “Math Reveals How Skateboarders Can Ramp up Their Half-Pipe
Power.” Science News Explores, 15 Nov. 2024,
www.snexplores.org/article/skateboard-pumping-math-physics. Accessed 11 Mar. 2025.

StoreYourBoard. (2023).)Skateboard Ramps | Intro | StoreYourBoard.com. [online]

Available at:https://storeyourboard.com/blogs/legacy-
articles/skateboard-ramps-intro-storeyourboard-com [Accessed 10 Mar. 2025.

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