A domino is a small rectangular block with one side blank or marked with an arrangement of spots resembling those on dice. A traditional domino set contains 28 unique pieces, one for each possible combination of ends with zero to six spots; the highest-value piece has six pips on each end (a double-six). The other face of a domino is typically divided into two squares, with either a single or a pair of identical pips.

When a domino is stood upright, it stores energy in the form of potential energy. When it falls, much of this energy is converted into kinetic energy, causing subsequent tiles to fall and creating a chain reaction. The speed at which a domino transmits this energy is the same as the speed at which nerve impulses travel along an axon, although the amount of kinetic energy is proportionally larger.

Historically, domino sets were constructed from bone, silver lip ocean pearl oyster shell (mother of pearl), ivory, or dark hardwoods such as ebony, with contrasting black or white pips inlaid or painted. More recently, dominoes have been made of polymers such as styrene or acrylic, and even glass. These modern materials have the advantage of being inexpensive and durable, but they lack the tactile quality of traditional sets.

In addition to the aforementioned blocking and scoring games, domino can be used for simple solitaire or trick-taking games, often as an alternative to card games that were prohibited by religious rules. These atypical domino games tend to be less competitive and more contemplative in nature, and they can be played by one person or with a group.

A key to a successful domino game is the layout of the dominoes on the table. Each domino must be positioned so that its open ends are connected to other tiles in the layout. Typically, additional tiles can be placed only on the long sides of a domino. However, if a domino has two open ends, the player may choose to place a tile on either of these ends.

Dominoes have been a popular toy for children since the early 1900s, and they continue to be a staple of family entertainment. The classic 28-piece set is still a popular choice for many households, and there are also countless variants of the game that can be played.

Lily Hevesh began playing with dominoes when she was 9 years old, and she quickly started collecting more tiles and creating intricate setups for her family to enjoy. Her passion turned into a career as a professional domino artist, and she now has over 2 million subscribers to her YouTube channel where she creates spectacular domino art for movies, TV shows, and events.

The story of Domino’s is an example of how a company can change its culture in order to meet the needs of its customers and employees. By introducing a new leadership structure, Domino’s addressed a number of concerns and made the necessary changes to boost customer satisfaction.