Mi-9 Knife Edge Gyroscope
Published: Thursday 09 March 2006 - Updated: Wednesday 18 April 2007
Aim
To demonstrate the inherent stability of a gyroscope
Apparatus
- Knife edge Gyroscope
- Gyroscope spinner
Diagrams
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Description
A gyroscope mounted on a knife edge support will balance on the knife edge once it is rotating at sufficient speed. The gyroscope is brought up to speed by means of the gyroscope spinner, an A.C. motor with a rubber wheel attachment. Any slight inbalance in the gyroscope will cause it to precess. The gyroscope should be returned to its wooden support base when not in use to protect the knife edge .