A top is set spinning so that the rotation is counterclockwise around its axis when viewed from above. When the top is placed on a level surface it happens that its axis of rotation is not quite vertical. Viewed from above, which way does the rotational axis of the top precess?
A) clockwise
B) counterclockwise
C) It's random, if it starts clockwise it will continue clockwise, and vice versa, i.e., a 50% chance either way.
D) The direction depends on the little shove given to the axis when the top is placed on the surface.
E) In the northern hemisphere it will be clockwise, in the southern hemisphere it will be counterclockwise.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The rotational axis of the top will precess in a counterclockwise direction. This is due to a phenomenon known as the right-hand rule, which states that the direction of precession is perpendicular to both the direction of the applied force (gravity in this case) and the direction of rotation of the top. Because the top is rotating counterclockwise and is tilted slightly from the vertical, the resulting precession will be counterclockwise when viewed from above.

A Top Is Set Spinning So That the Rotation Is