How to Play Dominoes

A domino is a small tile that represents the results of a roll of two dice. Its edges are marked with an arrangement of spots, or “pips,” like those used on a die, except that some of the squares on a domino are blank (indicated in the listing below by a zero). Each digit on a domino is placed so that it can be lined up with an adjacent digit to produce a sequence of numbers. A common domino size is 2 inches long, 1 inch wide, and 3/8 inch thick — small enough to fit comfortably in the palm of your hand, yet large enough to manipulate easily, and thick enough to stand upright on its edge.

A good domino is one that contributes to a larger goal and has the potential to impact the future in a positive way. For example, you might consider writing a financial plan to be a good domino, because it will help you achieve your overall goal of saving money and investing in the future. Another example would be completing the first day of a new fitness routine, because it will set you up for success in the following days.

When you play domino, it’s important to play on a hard surface so that the tiles won’t slip or slide and create an uneven playing field. It’s also helpful to have a set of rules for the game. For instance, the most common rule states that each player must take a turn playing a domino before the game can progress. If the player cannot lay a domino, they must “knock” or rap the table and pass play to an opponent.

The physics of dominoes can be fascinating. According to Stephen Morris, a physicist at the University of Toronto, when a domino is standing upright, it has potential energy, or stored energy based on its position. But as a domino falls, it converts much of its potential energy into kinetic energy, or the energy of motion. This change of energy causes the next domino to fall, and the process continues until the entire layout is complete.

Lily Hevesh, a domino artist, has created amazing displays using the laws of physics. Watch the video below to learn how she uses gravity to make her intricate designs.

Hevesh grew up playing with her grandparents’ classic 28-piece set, and she fell in love with the simple art of setting up a line of dominoes, flicking the first one, and watching it all tumble in a chain reaction. She has since worked on projects for movies, TV shows, and events, including the album launch of pop singer Katy Perry. When determining which tasks to tackle in her day, Hevesh prioritizes the most important ones and gives them her full attention until completion. She believes this strategy allows her to be more productive and effective in the workplace.