Final answer:
The gyroscopic effect, angular momentum, and center of mass are the reasons why pulling back lightly on the right handlebar of a motorcycle causes it to tip to the left and produce a left turn.
Step-by-step explanation:
The phenomenon the physics student is experiencing while driving his motorcycle is called the gyroscopic effect. When the student pulls back lightly on the right handlebar, it creates a torque or rotational force that causes the front wheel to precess or tilt to the left, resulting in a left turn.
This effect is due to the angular momentum of the spinning front wheel. The wheel's angular momentum contributes to the stability of the motorcycle, and when the handlebars are turned, the gyroscopic effect causes the motorcycle to lean in the opposite direction.
Furthermore, this action also changes the motorcycle's center of mass or balance. As the motorcycle leans to the left, the center of mass shifts to the right, creating a turning effect. This is similar to how a tightrope walker uses a pole to maintain balance and change direction.