Foucault precession manifested in a simple system

Praveen S. Bharadhwaj

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arXiv · 1408.3047

Foucault precession manifested in a simple system

Praveen S. Bharadhwaj

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Abstract

This article aims to answer the question, "What is the simplest system that embodies the essence of Foucault's pendulum?" We study a very elementary idealized system that exhibits a precession behavior analogous to the classic pendulum. The system consists of a particle without inertial mass, constrained to an inclined plane that rotates about a vertical axis. Insights gained from this analysis are used to understand the rate of precession in a straightforward way.

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Praveen S. Bharadhwaj. 2014-08-13. Foucault precession manifested in a simple system. https://arxiv.org/abs/1408.3047

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