The Spin On Beyblades
Ever wonder what makes Beyblades spin? Find out all about the cool science behind one of the world's most popular toys!
You Spin Me Right 'Round BabyWhen you let your Beyblade rip you set the spinning in motion. The ripcord spins the top around. Scientists call this twisting force torque. The only part of the Beyblade that touches the ground is the tiny bottom part. This reduces the friction - or rubbing - that could slow the Beyblades down.
Precession Is In The Driver's SeatThis is where it gets tricky. You might think Bitbeasts are what keep a Beyblade upright but that's not really what happens. The Beyblade is able to balance on its axis (the little part that touches the ground) because the spinning motion causes equal amounts of pressure to be applied to either side of the Beyblade. This is called precession. If your buddy's Beyblade smashes in to yours, this balance will be destroyed and your Beyblade will begin to slow down or crash.
Friction Vs. Inertia - The Real Beyblade BattleSo you've figured out why your Beyblades start to spin, but why do they stop? Inertia is science-speak for the theory that all objects that are moving will keep moving until another force makes it stop. The other force, in this case, is friction. The constant rubbing of the bottom of the Beyblade against the floor (or the Beystadium) and air will eventually cause the Beyblade to stop - if your opponent doesn't knock you out first.
I think beyblades are so cool, but they can be even better if you know what yours will do next. Spend some time to study yours. Look at its tip and feel its weight. Let it rip and watch it turn and move around the stadium. After a while you should know what it will do if you launch it this way or that.
Good Luck to all the Beybladers out there.
Kidz Submit by:Nickname: Driger_
Don't knock Beyblading if you didn't try it.
Kidz Submit by:Nickname: Magic Q