Domino, also known as dominoes, is a game where players set tiles on end in long lines. Each tile has a number on it, usually ranging from zero to six, that indicate its value in the chain. When the first domino is tipped, it causes the rest of the line to fall, creating a sequence of events that can lead to very complicated (and sometimes dangerous) designs. This physics-based game is popular with children and adults alike, with many people competing in domino shows to see who can create the most impressive arrangement of dominoes that will topple.

One of the most impressive domino effects comes from a world-renowned artist who has created stunning arrangements that take several nail-biting minutes to fall. The artist, Hevesh, is able to set up her intricate designs using a very simple principle: gravity. Gravity pulls each fallen domino toward Earth, causing it to crash into the next domino and trigger a chain reaction that continues to build until all the dominoes have fallen. Watch the video below to see Hevesh’s domino art in action.

The idea of domino is often used in a figurative way to describe an event or series of events that start small and grow larger and larger until they reach a tipping point. A domino effect can be seen in business, politics, and even daily life: if we change our routine or habits, they may affect other parts of our lives. For example, if we decrease our sedentary time, we may find that we spend less time on the couch watching television and eating junk food. This can have a positive impact on our health, and it is similar to the way that dominoes are stacked: each behavior leads to the next.

There are a variety of games that can be played with dominoes, including positional games and skillful games. The simplest games involve simply placing a domino on the table so that its two matching ends touch each other. The number that appears on either side of the domino is the value; this is called its rank. Some sets of dominoes have additional ranks, allowing for more precise and complex plays.

Many modern dominoes are made from polymer, a type of plastic. This material is inexpensive and durable. It is also available in a wide range of colors, making the set look more attractive and giving it a heavier feel. Older dominoes were typically made of bone, silver lip ocean pearl oyster shell (mother of pearl), ivory, or a dark hardwood such as ebony.

In addition to traditional dominoes, there are also sets made from other natural materials such as stone (e.g., marble and granite); soapstone; ceramic clay; metals such as brass or pewter; woods such as hickory or walnut; and even glass or crystal. Traditionally, these sets are more expensive than those made of polymer, but they offer a unique look and a more substantial weight.