3pólos

3pólos is a term used in several disciplines to denote a structure or mechanism with three poles or centers of influence. The meaning depends on the context, and no single definition is universally adopted.

In political science and international relations, 3pólos refers to a tri-polar or three-centered world order, in which three states or blocs exert dominant influence. Analysts contrast it with bipolar (two poles) and multipolar systems. The specific poles are debated and may vary by theorist and period; commonly discussed triads include arrangements among major powers such as the United States, the European bloc, and China, or other regional powers. The concept is used to analyze balance of power, security strategies, and diplomacy.

In engineering and technology, 3pólos describes components with three electrical poles, such as three-pole motors, relays, switches, and contactors. A three-pole arrangement allows three circuits or phases to be controlled or switched together, often used in three-phase systems where each pole corresponds to a phase. This configuration can offer certain advantages in control and efficiency for industrial machinery.

The term may appear in other specialized discussions, including organizational theory or network analysis, to denote three central hubs. Etymology: from pólos meaning pole in Greek; the numeral 3 indicates three.