The ‘Gömböc’ (pronounced: ‘goemboets’) is the first known homogenous object with one stable and one unstable equilibrium point, thus two equilibria altogether on a horizontal surface. It can be proven that no object with less than two equilibria exists.

The stable equilibrium (S)

If placed on a horizontal surface in an arbitrary position the Gömböc returns to the stable equilibrium point, similar to ‘weeble’ toys. While the weebles rely on a weight in the bottom, the Gömböc consists of homogenous material, thus the shape itself accounts for self-righting.

The unstable equilibrium (I)

The single unstable equilibrium point of the Gömböc is on the opposite side. It is possible to balance the body in this position, however the slightest disturbance makes it fall, similar to a pencil balanced on its tip.