Gyroscope

Definition

A gyroscope is a device used to measure or maintain orientation and angular velocity. It operates based on the principles of angular momentum.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. A spinning gyroscope resists changes to its axis of rotation due to the conservation of angular momentum.
2. The precession of a gyroscope occurs when an external torque is applied, causing the axis of rotation to move in a circular motion.
3. The rate of precession is inversely proportional to the angular momentum of the gyroscope and directly proportional to the applied torque.
4. In physics equations, precession rate can be calculated using $\Omega = \frac{\tau}{L}$, where $\Omega$ is the precession rate, $\tau$ is the applied torque, and $L$ is the angular momentum.
5. Gyroscopes are commonly used in navigation systems for aircraft, spacecraft, and ships due to their ability to maintain orientation.

Review Questions

• What principle allows a gyroscope to resist changes in its orientation?
• How does applying an external torque affect a gyroscope's axis of rotation?
• What factors determine the rate of precession in a gyroscope?

Related terms

Angular Momentum:

A vector quantity representing the product of an object's rotational inertia and rotational velocity about a particular axis.

Torque:

A measure of how much a force acting on an object causes that object to rotate. It is calculated as the product of force and lever arm distance from the pivot point.

Precession:

The slow movement or change in orientation of the axis of a spinning object caused by an external force or torque.