Unlimited Spin: Solving the Perpetual Motion of the Perfect Spinning Top

  • Thread starter ehrenfest
  • Start date
  • Tags
    Spinning
In summary, a spinning top is a toy that spins on its tip when set in motion by twisting or pulling a string. It works through the principle of angular momentum and has origins in ancient civilizations. Spinning tops can be made from various materials and offer benefits such as improving hand-eye coordination and reducing stress.
  • #1
ehrenfest
2,020
1
[SOLVED] spinning top

Homework Statement


Please confirm the following:
1) If a the tip of a top is perfectly sharp and everything else about the top is perfect and there is no air resistance, then you can put the top to sleep forever i.e. you can make it spin around the vertical axis forever.
2) With the same ideal conditions as in 1), you can make the top precess forever about the vertical.


Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution

 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
Both are correct. There is no mechanism for energy loss with no friction or air resistance.
 

FAQ: Unlimited Spin: Solving the Perpetual Motion of the Perfect Spinning Top

What is a spinning top?

A spinning top is a toy that typically consists of a pointed tip and a flat, disk-shaped body with a pointed stem. It is designed to spin on its tip when it is set in motion by twisting or pulling a string.

How does a spinning top work?

A spinning top works through the principle of angular momentum. When the top is set in motion, it starts spinning around its axis, which creates a force that keeps it balanced and prevents it from falling over.

Where did spinning tops originate?

The origins of spinning tops can be traced back to ancient civilizations, such as ancient Greece and Egypt. They were also popular in China and Japan, where they were often used in traditional games and ceremonies.

What materials are spinning tops made of?

Spinning tops can be made from a variety of materials, including wood, metal, plastic, and even glass. Some are also decorated with intricate designs or patterns, while others are left plain.

What are the benefits of playing with spinning tops?

Playing with spinning tops can help improve hand-eye coordination, fine motor skills, and concentration. It can also be a fun and relaxing activity that can help reduce stress and anxiety.

Similar threads

Exploring Spin Magnetization in Non-Ideal Systems
Replies
1
Views
1K
A What happens first: precession or nutation?
Replies
1
Views
1K
Spin-orbit coupling for positronium
Replies
1
Views
2K
Does a Spinning Top Exhibit Bobbing Motion?
Replies
9
Views
3K
Spinning ball deviation from straight path | Magnus effect
Replies
1
Views
2K
B I heard a spin-top in a perfect vacuum would stay spinning
Replies
9
Views
3K
I Gyroscopic precession of a spin-stabilized bullet
Replies
10
Views
2K
Frictional Torque of a Spinning Top
Replies
6
Views
3K
What Are the Possible Values of Total Nuclear Spin and Its Components?
Replies
3
Views
2K
I Energy of spinning objects as axis of rotation moves
Replies
1
Views
822

Hot Threads

Recent Insights

Back
Top