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Physics

The Strange Physics of Spinning Objects

Quick fact

Precession occurs when an external torque acts on a spinning object, causing its axis of rotation to slowly change direction instead of immediately aligning with the torque. The Dzhanibekov effect arises from the instability of rotation about an object's intermediate principal axis, leading to periodic flips without external torque.

Why this is interesting

Why does a spinning wingnut in space suddenly flip over, and what makes a gyroscope defy gravity?