Quick Answer: The Cycloidal Path Model is a three-track race apparatus comparing a straight line, a parabolic curve and a cycloid. A single-lever drop gate releases the balls together, and the one on the cycloid arrives first.
Last updated: October 2026
Key Features
Three tracks: straight line, parabolic curve and cycloidal curve
Acrylic tracks on an anodised aluminium profile
Hand-operated drop gate with spring-back trigger for simultaneous release
3 chrome steel balls and 3 glass balls
Levelling feet and built-in spirit level
Contrasting backing suited to slow-motion video analysis
In the first experiment one ball is loaded at the start of each track and released at once; the cycloid ball wins even though the straight line is shorter, which shows the brachistochrone property. In the second, two balls are let go from different heights on the cycloid alone and meet at the lowest point together, the tautochrone property, opening discussion of acceleration and the calculus of variations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the tautochrone property shown on the Cycloidal Path Model?
Balls released at the same moment from different heights on the cycloid track reach the bottom together.
