Definition

1. Noun:
   • A self-sustaining nuclear reaction: A process in which neutrons released by the splitting of one atomic nucleus cause the splitting of other nuclei, releasing more neutrons and continuing the process.
   • A series of chemical reactions: A sequence in which the product of one reaction becomes a reactant in the next, thereby propagating the series.
   • A figurative series of events: A sequence of events, each causing or influencing the next, often with increasing consequences.

Usage and Examples

• Nuclear Physics Context:

  • The scientists carefully controlled the chain reaction in the nuclear reactor.
  • An uncontrolled chain reaction can lead to a catastrophic release of energy.

• Chemistry Context:

  • The polymerization process involves a complex chain reaction.
  • The explosion was triggered by a rapid chemical chain reaction.

• Figurative/General Context:

  • The CEO's resignation set off a chain reaction of departures throughout the company.
  • One small protest sparked a chain reaction of demonstrations across the country.

Advanced Usage

• "To trigger/set off a chain reaction": To initiate a sequence of events.
  • The new policy triggered a chain reaction of unintended consequences.
• "A chain reaction of events": Emphasizes the linked, causal nature of a sequence.
  • The bank's failure began a chain reaction of events that led to a global financial crisis.

Variants and Related Words

• Chain-react (verb, rare): To undergo or cause a chain reaction.
  • The molecules began to chain-react uncontrollably.
• Chain-reacting (adjective): Describing a system undergoing a chain reaction.
  • The chain-reacting pile was monitored closely.

Synonyms

• Domino effect: A cumulative effect produced when one event sets off a chain of similar events.
• Snowball effect: A process that starts from an initial state of small significance and builds upon itself, becoming larger.
• Cascade: A process that occurs in a series of stages, each of which triggers the next.

Related Phrases and Idioms

• "Like a chain reaction": Used to describe something that spreads or progresses rapidly and uncontrollably from one event to the next.
  • The rumors spread through the school like a chain reaction.

Noun

1. a self-sustaining nuclear reaction; a series of nuclear fissions in which neutrons released by splitting one atom leads to the splitting of others
2. a series of chemical reactions in which the product of one is a reactant in the next