Curated OER
Gyroscopes in Motion
Physics stars will enjoy learning about the conservation of energy as you demonstrate gyroscope precession. The lecture is broken into five subtopics: cross product, rotating vectors, angular momentum, rotating rigid bodies, and torque...
Curated OER
Bicycle Wheel Gyro
Using a bicycle wheel and a rotating stool, young physicists experiment with angular momentum. This is a simple, fun, and educational activity that demonstrates a foundational concept. If you can secure the materials, it is definitely...
Curated OER
Angular Momentum (Automaticity)
Second graders experience practicing with a wide variety of vocabulary terms that relate to the Vista/Module "Angular Momentum:" momentum, inertia, force; motion, direction, centripetal force; angular momentum, gyroscope, resist. They...
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Mit: Open Course Ware: Courses: Physics: Classical Mechanics
College-level online course highlighting the study of classical mechanics. This course focuses on Newtonian mechanics, fluid mechanics, and kinetic gas theory. Course features include a 35 video lecture series by Walter Lewin. Also link...
Other
Encyclopedia Astronautica: Mariner
This web page contains information about Mariner I and Mariner II. The page explains how Mariner II was the first spacecraft to successfully fly by another planet. Includes detailed chronology of the Mariner missions.
OpenStax
Open Stax: Gyroscopic Effects: Vector Aspects of Angular Momentum
From a chapter on Rotational Motion and Angular Momentum in a Physics textbook. This section of the chapter explains how to use the right-hand rule to determine direction for angular velocity, momentum, and torque. Also discusses the...
MadSci Network
Mad Scientist Network: How Can a Gyroscope Defy Gravity
Explanation of the seemingly gravity-defying feats of a gyroscope. Focuses on the reason behind its operation. Includes illustrations.
Science and Mathematics Initiative for Learning Enhancement (SMILE)
Smile: Lab Activity: Tops
The Illinois Institute of Technology provides a lab activity on precession and spinning tops. Designed for primary grades, but easily adapted for any level. Includes directions and assessment ideas.
Exploratorium
Exploratorium: Bicycle Wheel Gyro
Description of a museum exhibit in which the spinning bicycle wheel induces the rotation of a student in a rotating chair. Excellent demonstration idea.
Exploratorium
Exploratorium: Gyroscope
Description of a museum exhibit in which the forces exerted by two gyroscope wheels are analyzed. Excellent demonstration idea.
Other
Glenn Turner: Gyroscope Math Page
The mathematics associated with gyroscopes can be investigated through this interactive page. Users enter critical parameters about gyroscopes and rotational motion descriptors are given.
Exploratorium
Exploratorium: Science Snacks: Bicycle Wheel Gyro
Did you know that by holding a spinning bicycle wheel you can make a rotating chair spin? This activity will have you spinning as you use a bicycle wheel as a gyroscope.
Other
Precession of a Gyroscope and of the Earth's Axis
Describes and calculates the precession of a gyroscope and also discusses the precession of the Earth's axis. Includes several pictures, diagrams, formulas, and details.
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Mit: Inventor of the Week: Robert H. Goddard
This brief article overviews the contributions Robert H. Goddard made to the development of liquid-fueled rockets.
Science Struck
Science Struck: Understanding the Gyroscopic Effect
Explains what a gyroscope is and the physics behind how it works.
Curated OER
Mad Scientist Network: How Can a Gyroscope Defy Gravity
Explanation of the seemingly gravity-defying feats of a gyroscope. Focuses on the reason behind its operation. Includes illustrations.
Curated OER
Science Kids: Science Images: Gyroscope
A computer generated image of a gyroscope. The outer ring supports to free spinning inner rings and a disc at the center. The gyroscope stands on a supporting base which holds it upright.