Dominos are small rectangular blocks with anywhere from 0 to 6 dots. They are used in various games. They can be stood up and placed in elaborate patterns that look impressive when they are knocked down.

Using dominoes as an example, we can see how one action triggers a chain reaction that causes other actions to follow. We can also use this principle when changing habits in our life or work.

For example, if we reduce our time watching television and mindlessly eating, that will eventually lead us to make healthier choices. That might mean cutting back on sugar or adding more vegetables to our diet.

A domino is made from a variety of materials, such as bone, silver lip ocean pearl oyster shell (mother of pearl), ivory or dark hardwood. They often have a contrasting design or color on their ends, and some sets are even made of frosted glass or crystal.

They can be played by two or more people in a game of chance, a block-and-draw type of play. In this type of game, the first player draws dominoes from a stock or boneyard and then chooses the number of dominoes they need for the round, usually seven. The leader then plays a domino with an end that matches the total of pips on the previous domino.

The most basic game of dominoes involves a set of 28 dominoes called the “double six” set. Each of these dominoes is marked with a line in the center, to divide the domino into two squares called ends. The total of the pips on both ends of the domino determines its rank or weight.

It’s important to note that there are many different types of dominoes, from European-style, carved wooden sets with contrasting pips, to plastic dominoes. While the latter are more affordable and easier to handle, they are not as durable or attractive as those made of woods or other natural materials.

In addition, they can be difficult to clean and maintain. They can withstand high temperatures and moisture, but they can warp or splinter.

To make dominoes as durable as possible, they must be made from a material that can withstand repeated use. Most dominoes today are made from polymer materials, but some are created with natural and durable materials.

Another factor that slows the dominoes down when they fall is friction. Friction is an important force that slows down moving objects, especially when they’re being moved in an uneven way. It also acts on the edges of falling dominoes.

Lastly, dominoes have to be heavy enough to push them over the edge of a table or desk, but light enough that they can still be handled. That’s a challenge, but it can be overcome with a proper balance of heft and density.

Topping over a large group of dominoes is not easy, but it’s fun and exciting. That’s because every time a domino is tipped over, it transmits energy to the next one. This energy can be stored in the domino, or converted to kinetic energy as it falls. The energy then carries on through the rest of the group until it finally topples over.