Precessing Toy Gyroscope, 1Q50.51

Topic and Concept:

• Rotational Dynamics, [:RotationalDynamics#Gyros: 1Q50. Gyroscopic Motion]

Location:

• Cabinet: [:MechanicsCabinet:Mechanic (ME)]

• Bay: [:MechanicsCabinetBayA12:(A12)]

• Shelf: #1

attachment:ToyGyro06-400.jpg

Abstract:

A pull string gyroscope precesses around an axis.

Important Setup Notes:

• This demo may require practice.

Setup and Procedure:

1. Place the stand on a table.
2. Locate a small hole on the axle of the gyroscope. Take one end of the black string, and feed it through the hole about an inch.
3. Neatly wind up the string around the axle.
4. Now place the gyroscope on the stand so that the axle is vertical. Press down with a finger on the top "ball" to keep the gyroscope in place.
5. With your free hand, grab the string and give it a continuous pull until the string is completely out.
6. You can now release the gyroscope. It will begin to precess due to the torque of gravity.

Cautions, Warnings, or Safety Concerns:

• N/A

Discussion:

Discuss the physics behind the demonstration, explaining some of the various steps of the demonstration when appropriate.

Videos:

• [https://www.youtube.com/user/LectureDemostrations/videos?view=1 Lecture Demonstration's Youtube Channel]

References:

• [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gyroscope Wikipedia - Gyroscope]

• [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Angular_momentum Wikipedia - Angular Momentum]

• [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nutation Wikipedia - Nutation]

• [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Precession Wikipedia - Precession]

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