Function of Gyroscopes: Spinning Indefinitely

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    Function Gyroscopes
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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the functioning of gyroscopes, particularly focusing on their ability to spin indefinitely and the effects of friction when not oriented perpendicularly to the ground. Participants explore theoretical and practical aspects of gyroscope motion, including forces at play and the implications of friction.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Debate/contested
  • Technical explanation

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants assert that a gyroscope will not spin indefinitely due to friction, especially when not powered.
  • Others propose that if a gyroscope is perfectly perpendicular to the ground and no opposing forces act on it, it could theoretically continue spinning indefinitely.
  • Concerns are raised about the effects of centripetal force causing friction between the disc and the supporting structure, which would prevent indefinite spinning.
  • Participants discuss the role of air resistance and bearing friction in slowing down the gyroscope.
  • One participant questions the relevance of the gyroscope's orientation to its ability to spin indefinitely.
  • Another participant humorously compares friction to a persistent force that prevents perpetual motion.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally disagree on the conditions under which a gyroscope might spin indefinitely. While some believe that friction will always lead to eventual stopping, others maintain that under ideal conditions, indefinite spinning is theoretically possible.

Contextual Notes

The discussion highlights the dependence on assumptions regarding friction, orientation, and external forces. There is no consensus on the importance of the gyroscope's orientation in relation to its spinning behavior.

Who May Find This Useful

This discussion may be of interest to those studying mechanics, physics students exploring rotational dynamics, or individuals curious about the practical applications and limitations of gyroscopes.

Werg22
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I know the function of gyroscopes and the way a disc always spin perpendicularly to a moving axis. My question is, when a gyroscope is not spinning perpendicularly to the ground, how does it still keep on spinning indefinitely since friction now affects the mechanism?
 
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It doesn't.

If this gyroscope is not powered (as with toy gyroscopes), friction will play its part in slowing down the disc. If the gyroscope is powered (as with most gyroscopes with a practical purpose) then the motor provides the force needed to overcome the friction in the bearings.
 
But if it is perpendicular to the ground it theorically never stops right?
 
Werg22 said:
But if it is perpendicular to the ground it theorically never stops right?

Theoretically, if no force opposes the motion, then it will keep going. However, you'll always have some friction in the bearings and some air resistance slowing things down.
 
Yeah, but the centripetal force also causes friction between the disc and and the bar so it won't spin indefinitely, no?
 
I don't know what you're asking.

It doesn't keep on going forever, because of friction. It will not spin indefinitely.
 
I mean ignoring air friction, there is friction between the disc and the bar caused by the centripetal force...
 
Werg22 said:
I mean ignoring air friction, there is friction between the disc and the bar caused by the centripetal force...


Yes! There is!

What is your question?
 
Werg22 said:
But if it is perpendicular to the ground it theorically never stops right?

Not really. When you take friction into account, the gyroscope eventually stops. The orientation of the gyroscope really doesn't matter (I'm not sure why you think it's important).
 
  • #10
Because gravity will have a component in the spinning direction.
 
  • #11
no mechanical toy that i know of will go forever. friction is like the grinch or whatever. same in your gyroscope.

does anyone know how they work...?
 

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