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Physical Challenge: Matchsticks And Glue

Take your virtual design into the real world—build with actual matchsticks and discover what simulation can't teach you about craftsmanship

Part of Build A Bridge That Holds 100 Coins

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Last updated Oct 29, 2025. Clone to remix or explore the blocks below.
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content

From Pixels to Physical

Educational content slides

From Pixels to Physical

You've designed virtually—now it's time to build for real.

The Challenge:

  • Span: 30cm between two supports
  • Goal: Hold 100 coins (or equivalent weight)
  • Materials: ~50 matchsticks + wood glue
  • Time: 1-2 hours (plus drying time)

What you'll learn:

  • Theory vs. reality (simulation predicts, reality teaches)
  • Craftsmanship matters (precision assembly is a skill)
  • Failure analysis (understand why things break)
  • Iteration mindset (version 2 is always better)

This is where engineering becomes tangible.

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quiz

Quiz: 3 Questions

Test your understanding with this quiz.

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Your physical bridge fails at 70 coins but your simulation predicted 100 coins. What's the most likely primary cause?

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feedback

Document Your Physical Build and Analysis

Complete this exercise and get AI-powered feedback.

Document Your Physical Build and Analysis

This is where theory meets reality. Your documentation of failures and learnings is as valuable as success.

Be honest and specific: What worked? What didn't? What surprised you? What would you do differently?