Domino is a set of rectangular pieces, similar to playing cards or dice. They are normally twice as long as they are wide. Each piece has a line down the middle, which divides it into two squares called ends. The number of spots on each end–called pips or values–ranges from one to six. The highest value is often referred to as a “double six.”
A domino can be used for many different games, including poker, blackjack, bridge and even chess. The pieces can be stacked to make pyramids or other structures. In addition, they can be used to create stunning displays of intricate designs.
Invented in Italy, dominoes spread to Austria, southern Germany and France. It became a popular pastime in France in the mid-18th century. The word “domino” appears to have originated in French, referring to the hooded cape that was worn over a priest’s surplice at masquerades during that period.
The earliest record of the word domino was in 1771, in the Dictionnaire de Trevoux. The term also appeared in English in that year.
There are several possible origins of the word domino. The most common is from the Greek word meaning “to knock down,” but it can also be traced back to a rudimentary form of juggling. It is thought that the domino was a popular juggling accessory during that period, with players forming large pyramids using the pieces to throw down juggling balls.
While dominoes have a number of uses, they are most commonly known for their use as a game. Traditional sets have one unique piece for each possible combination of numbers, from a single spot to six spots on each end, and some larger sets may contain as many as 190 dominoes.
Despite their size and weight, dominoes are incredibly powerful. A 1983 study by University of British Columbia physicist Lorne Whitehead showed that a group of dominoes could actually knock down something that was about one-and-a-half times their size.
The physics behind dominoes is fascinating. As each domino falls, its potential energy is converted to kinetic energy, which helps push the next domino over.
This process continues until the last domino is knocked over. When it does, it sends its kinetic energy toward the next domino, pushing it over and starting another chain reaction of toppling dominoes.
When creating a domino installation, Hevesh follows an engineering-design process, beginning with brainstorming images or words she wants to use in the setup. She then goes about sculpting the dominoes, using a variety of woodworking tools, from a drill press to a radial arm saw.
Once the design is complete, she begins assembling the dominoes into the installation. Once all the pieces are in place, she lets the dominoes tumble according to physics.
It’s important for all the dominoes to fall in a particular order so that they form a specific pattern. Creating the right domino pattern takes time and careful attention to detail.
The domino effect is a powerful concept that applies to your own personal success. It shows that if you focus on one activity, it will likely affect other areas of your life as well. Identify the activities you want to improve, and focus your energy on them until they begin to take off.