Meriam, Kraige & Bolton — Introduction to Three-Dimensional Dynamics of Rigid Bodies: Problem 7_94

7/94 The 4-oz top with radius of gyration about its spin axis of 0.62 in. is spinning at the rate \( p = 3600 \text{ rev/min} \) in the sense shown, with its spin axis making an angle \( \theta = 20^\circ \) with the vertical. The distance from its tip \( O \) to its mass center \( G \) is \( \bar{r} = 2.5 \text{ in.} \) Determine the precession \( \Omega \) of the top and explain why \( \theta \) gradually decreases as long as the spin rate remains large. An enlarged view of the contact of the tip is shown.