Is spin angular momentum increasing in a gyroscope?

AI Thread Summary
The discussion centers on the relationship between spin angular momentum and precession frequency in gyroscopes. The equation for precession frequency suggests that angular momentum remains constant over time, but the user questions whether the spin angular momentum is actually increasing. It is clarified that angular momentum is conserved unless acted upon by external torque, meaning it cannot increase without such influence. Changes in moment of inertia could occur if the gyroscope's shape changes, but overall angular momentum should remain constant or decrease slightly due to friction. The conversation emphasizes the importance of understanding these principles in gyroscopic motion.
applestrudle
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In my textbook there is an equation for the precession frequency:

Ω = τ/Iω

The derivation in the book shows no difference in the spin angular momentum at time t = 0 and t = delta t but when I tried it I got that the denominator of the above equation must be the 'new' angular momentum (at t = delta t)

If the spin angular momentum is increasing with time wouldn't that means the precession frequency would be decreasing but my textbook says constant velocity

:confused:
 
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I'm not sure what you are asking, but angular momentum is conserved, so it can't increase without some external torque. The moment of inertia could change if the gyroscope changes shape, but the angular momentum should stay constant, or be slowly decreasing due to friction.
 

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