Motion profile: A stepper motor rotates in discrete step increments determined by its construction and drive sequence. Does it inherently produce smooth continuous motion?

Introduction / Context:
Stepper motors are chosen for precise position control because they move in fixed angular steps. The visual appearance of motion can be smoothed with control techniques, but fundamentally the motor advances in discrete increments rather than a continuous rotation like a typical DC motor without commutation steps.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Stepper step angle is set by stator/rotor geometry (e.g., 1.8°, 7.5°).
• Drive sequences energize phases to advance one step at a time.
• Microstepping modulates currents to interpolate intermediate positions.

Concept / Approach:
Without microstepping, torque ripple and stepwise motion are evident. Microstepping applies sinusoidal or quasi-sinusoidal currents to create smaller effective steps; however, even then the motion is realized as a series of controlled increments. Calling the motion 'smooth continuous' mischaracterizes the technology, although proper microstepping can make it feel smooth for many applications.

Step-by-Step Solution:
1) Energize phase sequence → rotor aligns to the nearest stable step position.2) Advance the sequence → rotor jumps to the next stable position.3) With microstepping → intermediate current ratios yield intermediate equilibrium positions.4) Motion remains discrete by control, not inherently continuous physics.

Verification / Alternative check:
Torque vs position plots show detent and holding torque at discrete positions; microstepping reduces ripple but does not change the underlying incremental nature.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
“Correct” ignores discrete stepping; limiting correctness to certain stepper types or microstepping still does not create truly continuous, brushless-DC-like rotation.

Common Pitfalls:
Assuming microstepping eliminates all resonance and ripple; misinterpreting smoothness at low load as continuous rotation.

Final Answer:
Incorrect