When a gyroscope precesses, what is pushing it along?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the mechanics of gyroscope precession, specifically the source of kinetic energy during this phenomenon. It is established that the initial rotation necessary for precession must be imparted externally, as simply releasing the gyroscope leads to a transition where gravitational potential energy converts into kinetic energy. The torque responsible for precession is immediate, but the reaction to this torque experiences a slight delay. In an ideal scenario, the gyroscope oscillates while maintaining a constant total energy throughout the process.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of angular momentum and inertia
  • Familiarity with gravitational potential energy concepts
  • Basic knowledge of torque and its effects on rotational motion
  • Awareness of gyroscopic principles and behavior
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the principles of angular momentum conservation in gyroscopes
  • Explore the mathematical modeling of gyroscopic precession
  • Study the effects of torque on rotational dynamics
  • Investigate real-world applications of gyroscopic precession in engineering
USEFUL FOR

Physics students, mechanical engineers, and anyone interested in the dynamics of rotating systems will benefit from this discussion on gyroscope precession.

24forChromium
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This is the kind of gyroscope that I am talking about:
U52006_01_1200_1200_Gyroscope.jpg

Where did the kinetic energy of precession come from? The gyroscope's spinning angular inertia? If so, how does it transfer into the precession? Is a torque applied horizontally (along the x-y plane) when the system is under the effect of gravity? If so, why? If such torque is present, is it constant or does it reduces as the precession speed increases?
 
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24forChromium said:
you know this doesn't work.

What doesn't work? The link? It works fine for me.
 
24forChromium said:
Where did the kinetic energy of precession come from?
Someone or something has to initally impart the rotation needed to match the speed of precession for the gyroscope to remain exactly horizontal. If the gyroscope is just released, there is a transition where the gyroscope tilts down a bit, converting gravitational potential energy into kinetic energy related to precession. The precession related torque is instant, but the reaction is delayed by a small amount. In an idealized case, the gyroscope would cycle down and up while the rate of precession would increase and decrease, and the total energy would remain constant.
 

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