
Concept: Chain reaction
A chain reaction is a process where an initial event triggers a series of related events, each leading to the next. In physical systems, this often involves particles or molecules—when one reacts or breaks apart, it releases energy or new particles that cause further reactions. For example, in nuclear reactors, a single split atom releases particles that cause more atoms to split, creating a self-sustaining series of reactions. Chain reactions are fundamental in various fields, including chemistry, physics, and biology, where interconnected processes amplify effects, often exponentially.