VEX Robotics STEM Practice Exam 2025 – Complete Test Prep

A point turn in robotics refers to the action where a robot pivots around a specific point, typically its center of mass, to change its direction without significantly moving forward or backward. This maneuver is achieved by having the motors on one side of the robot turn in one direction while the motors on the opposite side turn in the opposite direction. This creates a rotational movement around the robot's center.

When both motors turn in opposite directions, the robot spins in place, allowing for precise direction changes. This is particularly useful for navigating tight spaces or making sharp turns. By contrasting this with other actions, such as having both motors turn in the same direction, which would cause the robot to move forward or backward instead of pivoting, the function of a point turn becomes clear. Similarly, having both motors stop would halt the robot completely, while running one motor at full power would lead to linear movement rather than a point turn.

Thus, the correct description of a point turn is when both motors turn in opposite directions, enabling the robot to rotate effectively around its pivot point.