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F = ma (First 10)
Rotation
FMA-2025-08 · 2025 F = ma (AAPT)

2025 F = ma Exam — Question 8

A symmetric spinning top, rotating clockwise at an angular frequency ω, is placed upright in the center of a frictionless circular plate. The plate then begins to rotate counterclockwise at a constant angular velocity ω. Assume the top’s axis remains perfectly vertical and stable without any precession. From the perspective of an observer rotating with the plate, how does the top appear to rotate?
Source: Question 8, 2025 F = ma Exam, © 2025 American Association of Physics Teachers (AAPT) and the U.S. Physics Team. Adapted by PhysicsTrainer: reformatted into a separate question and answer choices for online multiple-choice practice; any shared setup from nearby questions is repeated here. Not affiliated with or endorsed by AAPT or the U.S. Physics Team.