MadSci Network: Physics |
To explain further, consider the front wheel of a bicicyle as a gyroscope, spinning on imaginary perfect (frictionless) bearings in a perfect vacuum where it would spin forever if left undisturbed. The bike frame is mounted rigidly so it can't be moved by the precession of the wheel. Now let's rotate the fork, as if to steer the wheel. This forces the gyroscope to move in a manner against it's natural precession. In reality the force would transmit to the bearings, the higher pressures and associated friction decaying the rpm of the wheel, but what about our imaginary "perfect" gyroscope? Would it be slowed and if so by what?
Re: Will the speed of a perfect gyroscope decay if forced against precession
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