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Aircraft systems and instrumentsQuestion 551 of 934

What is gyroscopic precession?

  1. The ability of a gyro to stay fixed in space
  2. The loss of rotor speed when the power is reduced
  3. The drift of a gyro caused by Earth's magnetic field
  4. A gyro tilts or turns in response to a deflective force
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Correct answer: A gyro tilts or turns in response to a deflective force

The reaction occurs 90° later in the direction of rotation.

Source: Pilot's Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge (FAA-H-8083-25C), Chapter 8: Flight Instruments — Gyroscopic Flight Instruments — Precession, page 217

Practice aircraft systems and instruments

Questions last reviewed: 18 October 2026