Question

The path of a particle situated on the rim of a wheel moving along a surface (wheel is rotating) as observed by an observer standing on the earth near the wheel will be:

• A. Circular
• B. Linear
• C. Cycloidal
• D. Elliptical

Hint:

For rolling motion: - A point on the rim follows a cycloid. - The center of the wheel moves in a straight line. - A point inside the wheel traces a trochoid.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

When a wheel rolls along a surface without slipping, a point on the rim follows a cycloidal path. This is due to the combined effect of rotation and forward motion.