Precession and nutation of a gyroscope

The aim of the experiment P1.4.4.3 is to investigate the precession of a gyroscope. The precession frequency f_P is measured by means of the rotary motion sensor S, the rotary frequency f of the gyroscope disk by means of the reflextion light barrier, each in combination with CASSY. The dependance of the precession frequency f_P on the applied force, i.e. the torque M and the rotary frequency f is determined quantitatively. The relationship

applies for the corresponding angular frequencies ω_P and ω and for a known moment of inertia I of the gyroscope around its axis of symmetry.

The nutation of a force-free gyroscope is investigated, too. The nutation frequency f_N is measured by means of the rotary motion sensor S, the rotary frequency f of the gyroscope disk by means of the reflextion light barrier, each in combination with CASSY. The dependance of the nutation frequency f_N on the rotary frequency f is determined quantitatively. The relationship

applies for the corresponding angular frequencies ω_N and ω and for known moments of inertia I of the gyroscope around its axis of symmetry (rotational axis of the gyroscope disk) and I_⊥ around the pivotal point (point of support) of the axis.