PHYSICS · Multi-part · Fermi University Physics · Mechanics & Dynamical Systems · Rotation, rigid bodies and accelerated frames · Rotation, rigid bodies and accelerated frames
Action and Symmetry, Ch Euler's equations, free precession and the heavy symmetric top
Problem
A heavy symmetric top has I1=3.0×10−4kgm2 about the pivot, I3=1.0×10−4kgm2 about its symmetry axis, and Mgd=0.050Nm. It is held at a fixed tilt θ=40∘ from the upward vertical.
((a)) Find both steady-precession rates ϕ˙ from I1cosθϕ˙2−I3ω3ϕ˙+Mgd=0 for spin rates ω3=100, 300 and 900rads−1.
((b)) State, with a reason from the two sets of roots, how the slow root and the fast root each vary as ω3 increases, and check the slow root at ω3=900rads−1 against the gyroscope formula Mgd/(I3ω3).