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Rattleback

Rattleback

26 total reviews



A rattleback is a type of spinning top that prefers to spin in one direction due to its unique semi-ellipsoidal shape.

When spun in the wrong direction, it will automatically shift momentum until it spins in the opposite direction. This is caused by an asymmetric mass distribution and the instability between the rotational axes. As the mass shifts, the rolling axis compensates in the other direction, which in turn causes the mass to shift more.

This continues until the top is spinning in the preferred direction. But when spun in the “right” direction, the mass needs no compensation.

Challenge a know-it-all to explain the physics behind these simple shapes.

 

Dimensions: 3 ⅞" x ¾" x ½" 



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    Customer Reviews

    Based on 26 reviews
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    S
    S.M. (Virginia, United States)

    Fun little teaching tool disguised as a toy.

    V
    V.V. (Virginia, United States)

    Cool little item to add to my collection.

    B
    B.B.

    Very cool toy! I got it for my nephew but we quickly found out our cat likes it, too. XD It also looks neat in the sunlight, as it's translucent.

    A
    A.S. (Virginia, United States)

    Amanda gave this item 5 stars

    R
    R.P. (Virginia, United States)

    This is a cool physics display but didn't meet my expectations. My grandaughter and my son like to make it spin. I thought it would spin more after it stopped and went the wrong way. But the price was good. And we all learned a little bit.

    A
    A.P. (Virginia, United States)

    Andrea gave this item 5 stars

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