Finding angular speed of a precessing gyroscope

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the angular speed of a precessing gyroscope, with the correct answer being 1.8 x 10^3 revolutions per minute (rev/min). Participants emphasize the importance of maintaining consistent units throughout calculations, specifically using radians per second (rad/s) or radians per minute (rad/min) for angular velocity. The formula dL/dt = ΩpL is highlighted, requiring Ωp to be in the appropriate unit for accurate results. A successful approach involves converting angular velocity to rad/s before final conversion to rev/min.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of angular momentum and precession
  • Familiarity with the formula dL/dt = ΩpL
  • Knowledge of unit conversions between rad/s and rev/min
  • Basic principles of gyroscopic motion
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the derivation and application of the precession formula dL/dt = ΩpL
  • Learn about angular momentum in gyroscopes and its implications
  • Explore unit conversion techniques between radians and revolutions
  • Investigate practical applications of gyroscopes in navigation systems
USEFUL FOR

Physics students, engineers, and anyone interested in the dynamics of gyroscopic motion and angular velocity calculations.

Fluxthroughme
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Haven't done much work with gyroscopes, so I think I'm just missing something obvious, but since I'm using very basic formulas, I cannot see my error. The stated answer is 1.8*10^3 rev/min, so I am clearly off.
 
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Keep track of all of your units in your calculation. Note that using dL/dt = ΩpL requires Ωp to be in rad/s or rad/min (depending on your unit of time). I would suggest sticking with SI units throughout the calculation and then converting to rev/min at the end.
 
TSny said:
Keep track of all of your units in your calculation. Note that using dL/dt = ΩpL requires Ωp to be in rad/s or rad/min (depending on your unit of time). I would suggest sticking with SI units throughout the calculation and then converting to rev/min at the end.

Ahh! Converting to rad/s first and converting to rev/min at the end does work. So it WAS something simple :P Thank you!
 

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