Step-by-step tutorial
Step 1
Grab a coin and try to stand it on its side. What happens when you let go?
(Ker-plunk! Gravity can easily pull it right over.)
Step 2
Hold the coin upright and flick the edge with your finger to start it spinning! What happens now?
(It might take a few tries to get it going. Keep practicing!)
Fact
The coin stays upright as it spins because the spinning motion helps it fight gravity — just like a top. And just like a top, the coin will eventually slow down enough for gravity to pull it back to earth.