9th and 10th graders pushed the limits of physics and geometry to build the tallest free-standing structure using only toothpicks and marshmallows.
It's not just about stacking—it's about understanding the forces at play.
Teams learned that a wide base and low center of mass are crucial for preventing towers from toppling over.
Using triangles (trusses) proved to be the strongest shape, preventing the marshmallows from sliding or collapsing.
Understanding how to spread the weight of the tower evenly to avoid crushing the bottom marshmallows.
Test, fail, improve! Students had to quickly adapt their designs when towers started leaning.