Flip vs. Rotate: Which is Spinning an Object 360º?

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SUMMARY

In the discussion regarding whether spinning an object 360º horizontally is classified as a flip or a rotation, participants concluded that the terms are largely subjective. A flip is defined as turning over, while a rotation refers to turning around. The consensus is that both actions executed to 360 degrees result in no observable change, and the distinction depends on the context of the movement. Ultimately, the definitions hinge on individual interpretation of left/right and up/down orientations.

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  • Knowledge of terminology related to motion (flip vs. rotation)
  • Ability to analyze subjective vs. objective definitions
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This discussion is beneficial for educators, students in geometry or physics, and professionals in fields requiring precise definitions of motion and orientation.

justinswrong
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Hello,

Is spinning an object 360º horizontally a flip or a rotation? This is not homework, this is work work.

-Chris
 
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justinswrong said:
Hello,

Is spinning an object 360º horizontally a flip or a rotation? This is not homework, this is work work.

-Chris

Well, flip means to turn over and rotate means to turn around, which you could have found in any online dictionary, so which do you think?
 
Objectively, I don't think there is much of a difference.
Subjectively, if the operation exchanges left for right but not up for down, I'd call it a flip.
Pedantically, either operation executed to 360 degrees would result in no change whatsoever.
 
jackwhirl said:
Subjectively, if the operation exchanges left for right but not up for down, I'd call it a flip.

At the end of the day, you define what is left/right and what is up/down.
(If I'm standing and spin, you'd call it a rotation, but if I lay down and roll (same thing but now I'm sideways) would you now call it a flip?)

So this is ultimately a subjective matter (I don't think there's a technical difference)

jackwhirl said:
Objectively, I don't think there is much of a difference.
I agree
 

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