Is the Water Cup Vacuum Trick Real or Just a Viral Video Hoax?

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SUMMARY

The water cup vacuum trick demonstrated in the viral YouTube video is a hoax, relying on clever editing and specific props. The trick requires a small statue of an elephant and a bottle of cold medicine, which are essential for its execution. Skills in video editing, including splicing and photoshopping, are necessary to create the illusion of water retaining the shape of the cup. The trick is designed to generate viral interest rather than demonstrate a legitimate scientific principle.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of basic physics principles related to vacuum and pressure.
  • Familiarity with video editing techniques, including splicing and photoshopping.
  • Knowledge of props used in visual tricks, specifically the significance of the elephant statue and cold medicine.
  • Experience with creating visual illusions in media.
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the physics of vacuum and pressure to understand why the trick fails.
  • Learn advanced video editing techniques using software like Adobe Premiere Pro or Final Cut Pro.
  • Explore the psychology behind viral videos and why they capture public interest.
  • Investigate other viral video tricks and the methods used to create them.
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for content creators, video editors, educators in physics, and anyone interested in the mechanics behind viral phenomena.

Emlett
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Homework Statement


I recently saw a youtube video in which someone filled a cup with water and created a vacuum with a piece of cardboard. Then, he transfers it to a table and removes the cup using a twisting motion. The end result is the water retaining the form of a cup. Is this actually possible? Also, can you explain why or why not?

Here is the link for the video:
Code: 
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7ctaA2mERzI

Homework Equations


The Attempt at a Solution


I was unable to find another video that showed a replication of the trick despite being the video being so popular. Also, I have noted that his other uploaded videos are demonstrations of his CG work.
 
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Watch very closely at frames 1:46 to 1:48. You have to have a small statue of an elephant and a bottle of cold medicine nearby or the trick won't work. This is very obviously a viral video to see how much of a mess he can cause in the form of wet kitchen floors across the globe. Be sure to have a tiny elephant and some cold medication handy to prevent this from happening.

In addition, skills at splicing clips together, a little photoshopping, and casting very clear and cold ice inside a glass cup are a must. Above all, don't forget the twisting motion.
 
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