A small rectangular wooden or plastic block with a face marked with an arrangement of dots resembling those on dice and a smooth surface. It is used in a game in which players place adjacent dominoes edge to edge so that their numbers form a specified total. The dominoes are then knocked over in turn, and the number of points scored depends on how many adjacent dominoes remain standing.
A domino has inertia, a tendency to resist motion when no outside force is pushing or pulling on it. But when a force such as a small nudge causes the first domino to tip over, that initial domino releases its potential energy in a wave of falling pieces. Much of that energy is transferred to the next domino, which in turn provides a push for the one after it. And so on, until the entire chain is complete.
Dominoes can also be used in the creation of a display, such as an intricate tabletop design, or to build a large sculpture, such as a replica of the Taj Mahal. Creating such a structure requires planning, careful execution, and often several people working together. The work is tedious and time-consuming, but when completed it can be an impressive sight.
When writing, the domino effect describes how events in a story or nonfiction text impact and influence each other. A domino may be an individual scene, a plot point or argument, or it might represent the overall progression of an idea or concept. When a domino is effective in its role, it can help readers see how the whole picture fits together.
The term domino also carries with it the notion of an all-or-nothing event. In a line of dominoes, once the first domino is knocked over it initiates a wave that cannot be stopped. This phenomenon is similar to the way nerve impulses travel down a neuron.
It is important to follow the rules of any domino game being played. This will help prevent disagreements over the order in which tiles should be placed or the method for counting scores. The most common rules are as follows:
In addition, some games have specific requirements for playing particular tiles or special situations that must be followed. It is important for players to know these rules before beginning play. Whether following the basic rules or a more complex set of guidelines, it is important to have fun and remember that each person’s domino experience will be unique. If you find yourself bored with a certain game, try something new. Eventually you’ll discover that the domino world is vast and has a variety of ways to be explored.