A viral online trend has been sparking curiosity and amazement among young people, as videos show ordinary objects sticking to walls without the use of glue, tape, or hooks. Dubbed the “friction wall trick,” the simple experiment involves pressing an object firmly against a wall, sliding it upward, and then letting go. To the surprise of many, the object stays in place, at least for a short time.
Across social media platforms, users have been testing the trick with all kinds of items. Pencils, ballpens, brooms, staplers, makeup tools, and even small stools have appeared in videos, drawing millions of views and reactions. The trend’s appeal lies in how easy it is to try, making it especially popular among students who enjoy seeing science come to life in unexpected ways.
A Viral Trend Finds Its Way Into the Classroom
The friction wall trick has also made its way into classrooms, where it has become a source of excitement and hands-on learning. One teacher who experienced this firsthand was Minerva Polvera. She shared that when she entered her classroom, several objects were already stuck to the wall—ballpens, pencils, and even brooms—placed there by her students.
Her students eagerly demonstrated how the trick worked, clearly enjoying the moment. Rather than stopping them, she chose to join in, seeing the activity as harmless fun and a chance for students to learn through play. For her, the trend showed how curiosity can turn a simple classroom moment into an engaging learning experience.
The Physics Behind the “Sticky” Effect
Physicist Ryan Victorio explained that the phenomenon is caused by a combination of friction and static electricity. When an object is pressed and rubbed upward against a wall, friction builds up between the two surfaces.
This rubbing causes a temporary transfer of electric charges, creating static electricity. The charged object is then briefly attracted to the wall, allowing it to stick without any adhesive. The wall’s surface may also undergo slight, temporary physical changes that help the effect occur.
Why the Trick Never Lasts
Despite how impressive it looks, the effect doesn’t last long. Victorio noted that static forces are weak and can only hold lightweight objects for a short period, just long enough to overcome gravity. Heavier objects may appear to stick briefly if they are made of light materials, but they eventually fall.
