Torque-Free Precession and Wobble direction

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on Torque-Free Precession and its relationship with wobble direction in spinning plates, specifically referencing Feynman's Wobbling Plate and the Euler top. Participants clarify that the wobble direction can be either in the spin direction or retrograde, depending on the initial conditions such as the direction of the toss. The wobble-to-spin ratio is influenced by the plate's size and shape, with the understanding that excessive amplitude alters this relationship. The distinction between torque-free precession and pure precession is also highlighted, with specific ratios provided for each scenario.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Torque-Free Precession
  • Familiarity with the Euler Top dynamics
  • Knowledge of Feynman's Wobbling Plate concept
  • Basic principles of rotational motion and angular momentum
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the mathematical framework of Torque-Free Precession
  • Explore the dynamics of the Euler Top in detail
  • Investigate Feynman's Wobbling Plate experiments and equations
  • Examine the effects of amplitude on wobble direction and frequency
USEFUL FOR

Physics students, mechanical engineers, and anyone interested in the dynamics of rotational motion and precession phenomena.

Dueschnozzle
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In Torque-Free Precession of a plate, can the direction of the Wobble be either in the spin direction or retrograde to it?

For instance if you tossed the plate upward vs downward with the same spin direction. Would the wobble direction and frequency be inverse?
 
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Anyone?
 
I am not sure that understood your question correctly, but anyway you are asking about the Euler top. Try textbooks
 
wrobel said:
I am not sure that understood your question correctly, but anyway you are asking about the Euler top. Try textbooks
Hmm... I was asking more about Feynman's Wobbling Plate. Feynman said he observed the wobble at half the spin rate, but his equation says it's 2 wobbles per spin. Could both be true? From what I've read the wobble to spin ratio is determined by the size and shape, with the caveat as long as the amplitude is not too large. What happens when the amplitude is too large?
 
Dueschnozzle said:
I was asking more about Feynman's Wobbling Plate.
yes, it is a special case of the Euler top
 
wrobel said:
yes, it is a special case of the Euler top
So is this the difference between torque free precession = 2 wobble/1retrograde spin, vs roll or pure precession = 1wobble/1spin in same direction or zero spin?
 

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