Electric Toothpicks

Effect:

Two toothpicks are shown. The magician claims that because wood is a poor conductor, the only type of electricity that can go through it is static electricity. The magician takes one toothpick and puts it on the edge of the table, leaving about half of it extending over the edge. He now takes the second toothpick and rubs it against his sleeve, claiming that it will generate electricity. He slowly takes this toothpick and carefully touches the toothpick that's hanging over the edge of the table. This toothpick jumps about a foot in the air, demonstrating the static electricity.

Secret:

You need two toothpicks for this trick. On of them is placed on the table so that it hangs over the table. Hold the second toothpick between your right thumb and index finger, with the middle finder on the underside of the toothpick.

The toothpick should be gripped between your middle finger's finder tip and its nail, and the middle finger should push upward. This will put pressure on the toothpick. Discuss static electricity and carry on other patter. When you're ready, rub the toothpick on your sleeve, saying that this will generate static electricity.

Slowly bring the toothpick to position under the other tooth pick. Raise the tooth pick by your right hand up towards the tabled toothpick. When they touch, your middle fingernail flicks the end of the toothpick, which is firmly held in place by your thumb and forefinger. This will snap the held toothpick against the tabled toothpick, causing it to jump into the air.