ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Goryachev–Chaplygin top

Imagine you have a toy top that you spin around. Now imagine if that top had two different parts - one bigger and heavier at the bottom, and one smaller and lighter at the top. That's what a Goryachev-Chaplygin Top is.

The cool thing about this top is that even though it looks lopsided, it can still spin perfectly and even do some neat tricks. That's because it follows a special set of rules called the laws of physics that help it stay balanced and stable.

But here's where it gets even cooler. If you spin the Goryachev-Chaplygin Top fast enough, it starts doing some weird and unexpected things. It might start wobbling or even flipping over, which seems like it shouldn't be possible given its shape.

Scientists study the Goryachev-Chaplygin Top because it helps them understand how objects move and spin in different environments, like in space or on other planets. Plus, it's just a really neat toy that can provide endless hours of fun and experimentation.