University Physics with Modern Physics (14th Edition)

Published by Pearson
ISBN 10: 0321973615
ISBN 13: 978-0-32197-361-0

Chapter 10 - Dynamics of Rotational Motion - Problems - Discussion Questions - Page 327: Q10.2

Answer

Small, light solid wheels are best.

Work Step by Step

As explained on page 312, if 2 cars descend by a height H, the car whose wheels have a smaller moment of inertia will be moving faster. Less of its kinetic energy is tied up in rotation form, and a higher fraction of it is available for translational kinetic energy.
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