Can Precession Explain the Stability of High-Speed Ice Skaters?

In summary, precession, which is the change in orientation of a rotating object, can explain the stability of high-speed ice skaters. This phenomenon occurs due to the conservation of angular momentum, where the skater's body resists any external forces that may cause them to tip over by adjusting their body position and rotation. This allows them to maintain their balance and stability while performing fast spins and turns on the ice. Additionally, the skater's blades, which are designed to minimize friction and distribute weight evenly, also contribute to their stability. Overall, precession plays a crucial role in explaining the impressive stability of high-speed ice skaters on the ice.
  • #1
gabriel barata
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does it take wheels for precession to happen? can precession be applied to ice skates, for example?
 
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  • #2
Welcome to PhysicsForums. :smile:

Assuming you mean precession of a spinning ice skater (not of their skates), it should happen. What makes a gyroscope precess? Spinning angular momentum is one part; what is the other part that causes precession? What could you do to an ice skater in a spin that would cause this effect? :smile:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Precession

https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipe...precession.gif/220px-Gyroscope_precession.gif

1612136941635.png
 
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  • #3
berkeman said:
Welcome to PhysicsForums. :smile:

Assuming you mean precession of a spinning ice skater (not of their skates), it should happen. What makes a gyroscope precess? Spinning angular momentum is one part; what is the other part that causes precession? What could you do to an ice skater in a spin that would cause this effect? :smile:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Precession

https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipe...precession.gif/220px-Gyroscope_precession.gif

View attachment 277225
Would it be the torque?
I don't get where is the spinning angular momentum, like in the wheels.

thanks for your reply :smile:
 
  • #4
gabriel barata said:
I don't get where is the spinning angular momentum, ...
How should we know? You have not described any specific scenario.
 
  • #5
A.T. said:
How should we know? You have not described any specific scenario.
A person leans to the side riding his bike to make the turn. I wanted to know about a person leaning on ice skates to make the turn, just like the person on the bike.
 
  • #6
gabriel barata said:
I wanted to know about a person leaning on ice skates to make the turn, just like the person on the bike.
I don't think precession plays a role in this case.
 
  • #7
A.T. said:
I don't think precession plays a role in this case.
So a high speed ice skater is no more stable than a low speed ice skater?
 
  • #8
gabriel barata said:
So a high speed ice skater is no more stable than a low speed ice skater?
Moving fast by itself does not create stability against falling over to the side.

But the mechanisms of dynamic stability can be very complex, especially for the human body and its interaction with the ice. When you bring steering into it, it gets complicated, even for simple bikes:

 
Last edited:

1. How does precession affect the stability of high-speed ice skaters?

Precession refers to the phenomenon where the axis of rotation of a spinning object changes direction due to external forces acting on it. In the case of high-speed ice skaters, precession helps to stabilize their movements by counteracting any external forces that may cause them to lose balance. This is because the precession force acts perpendicular to the direction of the external force, thus keeping the skater upright and stable.

2. Can precession fully explain the stability of high-speed ice skaters?

While precession plays a significant role in maintaining the stability of high-speed ice skaters, it is not the only factor at play. Other factors such as the skater's center of mass, body positioning, and muscle control also contribute to their stability. Precession is just one of the mechanisms that helps to keep the skater balanced and in control of their movements.

3. Is precession the same as angular momentum?

No, precession and angular momentum are two different concepts. Angular momentum refers to the rotational momentum of an object, while precession refers to the change in direction of an object's axis of rotation. Precession can affect the angular momentum of an object, but they are not interchangeable terms.

4. What other sports or activities rely on precession for stability?

Precession is a fundamental principle in many sports and activities that involve spinning or rotating movements. Some examples include figure skating, gymnastics, diving, and even martial arts. In these activities, precession helps to maintain the stability and control of the athlete's movements, allowing them to perform complex maneuvers with precision.

5. Can precession be manipulated to improve a high-speed ice skater's performance?

Yes, precession can be manipulated to improve a high-speed ice skater's performance. Skaters can use their body positioning and muscle control to control the direction and magnitude of the precession force, which can help them maintain balance and execute more complex movements. Additionally, coaches and trainers can also use precession as a training tool to improve an athlete's stability and control on the ice.

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