A new approach to the solution of some problems of rigid body dynamics

A representation of the turn-tensor of an axisymmetrical rigid body by usin g the moment of momentum vector is proposed. It is proved that for certain external moments the motion of an axisymmetrical rigid body differs from th e motion of the spherical rigid body only by the additional rotation around its axis of symmetry. Analogy between the problems of the rotation of an a xisymmetrical rigid body under the action of the moment, directed along the axis of symmetry of the body and under the action of the constantly direct ed moment, is exposed. Exact solution of the problem of free rotation of an axisymmetrical rigid body, taking account of a linear viscous friction, is constructed.