A Mathematical Model for Top Motions

Abstract

The topic of the top motions is not new but the known publications represent wrong mathematical models for its gyroscopic effects. Recent investigations have demonstrated the physics of gyroscopic effects is more complex. On any spinning objects are acting the system of interrelated internal torques generated by their rotating mass elements and center mass. The inertial torque is produced by the centrifugal, common inertial and Coriolis forces, as well as the change in the angular momentum. These inertial torqueses represent the fundamental principle of gyroscope theory. The new inertial torques enables deriving mathematical models for the motions of any rotating objects that were impossible for a long time. The aim of this work is to represent mathematical models for the motions of the well-balanced top on the flat horizontal surface. This work describes the physics of the top motions and closes the problem of many years of discussion. The new analytical approach for the top’s motions definitely responds to the practical results and represents a good example of the educational process.