Mastering inertia at home

Ever wondered how magicians make it look so easy to yank a tablecloth out from under a fully set table?

Well, now’s your chance to demystify that classic trick and add a touch of wonder to your dinner parties.

Courtesy of the DIY Science Week folks, this project teaches you how to deftly pull off the tablecloth trick using just a small table, a hem-free tablecloth, and some sturdy, unbreakable items.

You'll gain a hands-on understanding of inertia, that sneaky physics principle that keeps those items firmly planted on your table.

Ready to impress your friends and maybe even keep a few heavy items in place?

Explore the trick!

Pro tip: Use a smooth, fast jerk to minimize friction and maximize the trick's effectiveness.