Can a Hammer and Ruler Balance Defy Gravity?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers around the feasibility of balancing a hammer and ruler in a manner that appears to defy gravity, referencing a specific visual demonstration. Participants draw parallels to a classic bar trick involving forks balanced on a toothpick, emphasizing the underlying principles of physics and center of mass. The conversation highlights the playful nature of such demonstrations, showcasing their appeal as both entertainment and educational tools.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of basic physics principles, particularly center of mass
  • Familiarity with bar tricks and their mechanics
  • Knowledge of visual demonstrations in physics education
  • Experience with hands-on experiments in a casual setting
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  • Research the physics of balance and center of mass in objects
  • Explore other bar tricks that illustrate physical principles
  • Learn about visual demonstrations used in physics education
  • Investigate the psychological effects of perception in balancing tricks
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Physics enthusiasts, educators looking for engaging teaching methods, and individuals interested in entertaining bar tricks that illustrate scientific concepts.

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Try it and see! (Where's the center of mass?)
 
I've never seen that one before. Oh, goodie... another piece of free art for my living room. :cool:
 
bar trick - physics demo

Reminds me of the old bar trick--and now physics demo--of balancing forks on a toothpick. Same principle. http://demo.physics.uiuc.edu/lectdemo/scripts/demo_descript.idc?DemoID=634"
 
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Yeah, that's a good one. I used to weird people out by hanging my school locker padlock on the end of my finger in a similar fashion. Me being me, everyone assumed that it was some sort of trick. :rolleyes:
 

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