Mechanics > Kinematics > Motion in 2-D DCS# 1D15.50
BRACHISTOCHRONE TRACK
 
APPARATUS
 
cycloid and straight tracks   202-alcove
two 1/2" diameter balls 202-14-E4
bucket of sand to catch ball 101-14

DESCRIPTION Release two balls from tops of tracks to show that the ball traveling along the cycloid reaches their point of intersection in less time than the ball on the straight track.

Straight track pivots, so the point of intersection can be located anywhere along the track.  Difference in travel times is more obvious for longer paths.

Release two balls from different heights on opposite sides of the cycloid to show that they reach the bottom at the same time.
 

 REFERENCES Meiners, 7-2.6.