As a college thrower I personally experienced the flight characteristics of the 2k disc. I just never understood the physics of it until now :-) I've often wondered why so many throws (at all levels) roll inwards. I'm still not sure I completely understand it, but I really appreciate all...
Actually, being very familiar with discus throwing, they very often roll into some degree. In fact, with a little help from a quartering head wind, record throws almost always land vertically, frequently rolling inwards 45 degrees.
Just to make sure I understand. This effect is caused by the gyroscopic response to torque and not the aerodynamics?
As another example: Olympic discus throwers experience a similar effect. Throws either land fairly flat or roll inwards. They never roll out, regardless of wind direction...
That's what I would think, but the edge of the disc that is spinning in the direction of flight is the one that goes down. That is what I don't understand...
Why does a Frisbee delivered by a right handed thrower with a back hand release tend to roll to the left?
or in general:
Why does a flying disc tend to roll in the opposite direction that it is spinning? (see attached image)