When a gyroscope precesses, what is pushing it along?

In summary, the conversation discusses the source of kinetic energy for precession in a gyroscope, the role of angular inertia, and the presence of a horizontal torque due to gravity. The participants also consider whether the torque is constant or decreases as the precession speed increases. The conversation references the concept of precession and its relation to gravitational potential energy.
  • #1
24forChromium
155
7
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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  • #4
24forChromium said:
you know this doesn't work.

What doesn't work? The link? It works fine for me.
 
  • #5
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.
 

1. What is a gyroscope?

A gyroscope is a spinning device used to measure orientation and maintain stability in various objects, including airplanes, ships, and smartphones. It consists of a spinning rotor, mounted in a framework, that is free to rotate in any direction.

2. How does a gyroscope precess?

When a gyroscope is subject to a torque, such as the Earth's gravitational pull, the spinning rotor will start to tilt and rotate around its axis. This motion is known as precession.

3. What causes a gyroscope to precess?

The precession of a gyroscope is caused by the conservation of angular momentum. When a torque is applied to the spinning rotor, the axis of rotation will change in order to maintain the same overall angular momentum.

4. Is there a force pushing the gyroscope along when it precesses?

No, there is no external force pushing the gyroscope along when it precesses. The motion is a result of the conservation of angular momentum and the torque applied to the spinning rotor.

5. Can a gyroscope precess in any direction?

Yes, a gyroscope can precess in any direction. The direction of precession is determined by the direction of the applied torque and the orientation of the spinning rotor.

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