The Exciting World of Dominoes

How does a domino chain reaction work?

When one domino topples over, what happens to the energy of the standing domino when the former domino hits it?

Answer:

Much of the potential energy is converted to kinetic energy, or energy of motion.

Domino chain reactions are a fascinating display of physics and precision. When you set up a row of dominoes and tip the first one over, a chain reaction takes place where each domino topples over the next. This is made possible by the transfer of kinetic energy from one domino to another.

As the first domino falls, it gains kinetic energy while losing potential energy. When it hits the second domino, the kinetic energy is transferred, causing the second domino to start falling. This process continues down the line until all dominoes have fallen.

The energy of the standing domino is transformed from potential energy to kinetic energy when it is struck by the falling domino. This transfer of energy is what propels the chain reaction forward and creates the mesmerizing visual display of falling dominoes.