When a gyroscope precesses, what is pushing it along?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the mechanics of gyroscope precession, specifically exploring the source of kinetic energy involved in precession, the nature of applied torque, and the relationship between gravitational effects and precession dynamics. The scope includes theoretical and conceptual aspects of gyroscopic motion.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Technical explanation, Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • One participant questions the origin of the kinetic energy of precession, suggesting it may come from the gyroscope's spinning angular inertia and seeks clarification on how this energy transfers into precession.
  • Another participant inquires about the presence of horizontal torque when the gyroscope is affected by gravity, asking whether this torque is constant or varies with precession speed.
  • A later reply proposes that the kinetic energy for precession must be initially imparted to maintain horizontal orientation, noting a transition where gravitational potential energy is converted into kinetic energy related to precession.
  • This reply also mentions that the torque related to precession is instant, but the reaction to this torque is delayed, suggesting a cyclical behavior in an idealized case where energy remains constant.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the mechanics of precession, particularly regarding the source of kinetic energy and the nature of torque, indicating that multiple competing perspectives remain without consensus.

Contextual Notes

Some assumptions about the idealized behavior of gyroscopes and the effects of gravitational forces on precession are not fully explored, leaving certain aspects unresolved.

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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