Colorful pencils and stacks of coins form a cantilevered bridge structure on a white table against a dark background.

“The Cantilevered Pencil Bridge” Description: Lay pencils horizontally on a table so they extend far past the edge. Balance small weights (like coins) on the overhanging ends so the pencils don’t tip. You can connect multiple pencils to make a bridge-like structure. Why It’s Cool: Looks like it should collapse under its own weight. Physics: The COM of each pencil + its weight is vertically aligned with the table edge (pivot point). The torques from weights on each side balance perfectly. See more