When turning, which path do the rear wheels of the vehicle follow compared to the front wheels?

When a vehicle makes a turn, the rear wheels actually follow a path that is shorter than the path traveled by the front wheels. This occurs because of the geometry of steering and how vehicles are designed. The front wheels pivot around the steering axis, creating a larger arc for the front wheels compared to the rear wheels.

As you turn, the front wheels lead the vehicle into the turn, while the rear wheels trail behind, effectively creating a tighter turning radius for them. This is due to the difference in their distance from the center of the turn. Hence, in a left turn, for example, the front wheels will move in a circular path that is larger in radius, while the rear wheels will follow a path that is slightly smaller, thus resulting in a shorter path for the rear wheels. Understanding this concept is crucial for drivers, especially in terms of navigating turns safely and understanding vehicle dynamics.