Why Does a Helicopter Have a Little Propeller on Its Tail?

What Crafty Clover says in this video

Intro

Hi there, curious minds! I'm Crafty Clover! Let's discover something amazing. Why does a helicopter have a little propeller on its tail?

The Big Idea

Look at the tail of a helicopter. There is a little propeller! What is it for?

An Opposite Spin

Step one: an opposite spin. When the big rotor spins one way, the body of the helicopter tends to spin the other way. Every action has an opposite reaction.

A Sideways Push

Step two: a sideways push. The tail rotor pushes sideways to cancel that spin. It also lets the pilot point the nose.

Two Rotors

Step three: two rotors. Some helicopters have two big rotors turning in opposite directions instead. So no tail rotor is needed.

A Closer Look

Let's take a closer look! The main rotor spins one way. The body tries to spin back. The tail rotor pushes sideways. The helicopter stays steady.

Quick Facts

Quick facts! The Chinook helicopter has two big rotors, one at the front and one at the back. The tail rotor helps point the nose. Every action has an opposite reaction. Two rotors can cancel each other's spin.

Think Like a Scientist

Now, think like a scientist! Sit on a swivel chair with your feet off the floor. Ask a grown-up to be nearby. Swing your arms in a big circle. Which way does the chair turn? Write down what you notice, and share it with a grown-up.

Outro

A helicopter has a tail rotor to push sideways and cancel the spin made by the big rotor. Science is amazing! Keep asking questions! Every question is a new adventure, so keep wondering and keep exploring with me! Thank you for exploring with me, and remember that every great scientist started with a question. Crafty Clover can be found on Amazon Books, Google Bookstore, and Apple Books. Available for purchase or download! Bye for now!