Unlimited Spin: Solving the Perpetual Motion of the Perfect Spinning Top

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SUMMARY

The discussion confirms that under ideal conditions—specifically, a perfectly sharp tip, no air resistance, and no friction—a spinning top can theoretically spin indefinitely around its vertical axis and precess forever. These conclusions are based on the principles of conservation of angular momentum and energy, which dictate that without external forces, the system experiences no energy loss.

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  • Basic knowledge of rotational dynamics
  • Concept of precession in physics
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[SOLVED] spinning top

Homework Statement


Please confirm the following:
1) If a the tip of a top is perfectly sharp and everything else about the top is perfect and there is no air resistance, then you can put the top to sleep forever i.e. you can make it spin around the vertical axis forever.
2) With the same ideal conditions as in 1), you can make the top precess forever about the vertical.


Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution

 
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Both are correct. There is no mechanism for energy loss with no friction or air resistance.
 

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