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How to Balance a Polygon on a String

If you have a polygon made of cardboard or another material, it is not hard to find the spot where you would need to attach a string in order to let the polygon hang in perfect balance. That spot is known as the "center of gravity." The center of gravity is the point at which an object is balanced perfectly in all three dimensions. This technique will help you find your polygon's center of gravity and balance it from a string with just a few simple tools.

Things You'll Need

  • Polygon of cardboard or other material
  • Pencil
  • String
  • Nut, bolt or other small weight
  • Glue
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Instructions

    • 1

      Tie a weight to one end of the string.

    • 2

      Pinch the unweighted end of the string between two fingers against one point on the perimeter of the polygon. Let the polygon and the string hang loosely. Mark a line along the string in pencil.

    • 3

      Repeat Step 2 using a different point on the perimeter of the polygon, marking a second line along the string. For best results, pick a point that is not very close to either end of the first line that you drew. The point where the two lines cross is the center of gravity.

    • 4

      Remove the weight from the string. Place a small drop of glue at the point where the two lines cross on the polygon. Carefully attach one tip of the string to the glue and let it dry. When you lift the string, the polygon should balance on the end of it.

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