How to transform ordinary rulers into captivating feats of magic? Equip yourself with two standard 30 cm rulers, made of wood or other materials. Attach a 20 cm string to each ruler by threading it through the hole at one end (see Fig. 1). Form a cord loop around one ruler, knotting the loose end of the cord, as depicted in figures 2 and 3. Ensure the string ring is not too tight, allowing it to glide smoothly along the ruler.
Repeat with the second ruler, threading the cord through the loop of the first ruler, as shown in figure 4.
The challenge is to separate the rulers without cutting or unraveling the cords. Despite the apparent difficulties, the solution unfolds seamlessly.
This string puzzle can also be build using two plastic pipes and two curtain rings (see figure 5).
