Help me A spinning blue plastic object made me sleepless.

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    Plastic Spinning
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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around a video demonstration of a spinning blue plastic object that appears to reverse its rotation without any external force. Participants explore the nature of this phenomenon, referencing related concepts and objects.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses confusion about the behavior of the spinning object, questioning why it reverses direction after stopping.
  • Another participant suggests that the object may be a rattleback, which is known for its unique spinning behavior.
  • A subsequent reply confirms the identification of the object as a rattleback, indicating that it is not a mysterious phenomenon.
  • Another participant mentions that rattlebacks are sold commercially as "Space Pets," providing a link for reference.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Contextual Notes

Participants have not viewed the specific video, which may limit their understanding of the exact behavior being discussed. The explanation of the rattleback's motion is not fully elaborated, leaving some assumptions unaddressed.

Who May Find This Useful

Individuals interested in classical mechanics, rotational dynamics, or those curious about the behavior of toys like rattlebacks may find this discussion relevant.

ltd5241
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Help me!A spinning blue plastic object made me sleepless.

I've seen the mit online vedio course Physics I: Classical Mechanics Lecture 21 Torques, Oscillating Bodies,near the end 44:19.There is a spinning blue plastic object,the teacher spun it, it revolved then it stoped,then it revolved reversely without any other force!
link:http://ocw.mit.edu/OcwWeb/Physics/8-01Physics-IFall1999/VideoLectures/detail/embed21.htm
WHY?
 
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That is weird.
 


MATLABdude said:
Haven't seen the video, but it sounds like a rattleback:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rattleback

Nifty little toy. However, nothing really mysterious about it.

Thank you! That's it.Rattleback.
 

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