PURPOSE: To demonstrate precession and nutation of a gyroscope.
DESCRIPTION: Spin the wheel by hand so that it possesses angular momentum, and release it. If the counterweight is positioned so that it statically balances the wheel, the system will not precess. The counterweight can be unbalanced so as to create precesssion in either direction. Raising the wheel slightly or giving it a slight push while releasing it creates various combinations of precession and nutation.
SUGGESTIONS:
REFERENCES: (PIRA 1Q50.20)
EQUIPMENT: Gyroscope in stand.
SETUP TIME: None.
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