Correct Answer to Question 8

The stabilizing rotor is mounted so that its axis is the fore-and-aft axis of the ship. It will be very difficult to change the angular momentum of the rotor -- in particular, to change the axis of rotation.

If the ship should roll from side to side (case a), there would be no change in the direction of the rotor's axis. So rolling would NOT be inhibited.

However, if the ship should pitch up and down (case b -- rotation about a transverse horizontal axis), this WOULD change the orientation of the rotor's axis. This motion would be strongly resisted.

Similarly, a change of the ship's axis to left or right (case c -- a steering maneuver) would change the direction of the rotor axis; this motion would also be inhibited.

Formula Sheet

Question 8

Question 9

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