Branched

Branched is an adjective describing something that splits into two or more branches or pathways. In science and everyday language, branching characterizes structures or processes that deviate from a single linear path, instead forming a network of offshoots.

In chemistry, branching describes molecules with side chains attached to a main chain. Branched alkanes differ from straight-chain isomers; for example, isobutane is branched compared with n-butane. Branching generally lowers boiling points and can affect density and reactivity. In polymers, branching changes topology: linear polymers tend toward crystallinity, while branched polymers are more amorphous with different melting temperatures and viscosities. Glycogen is a highly branched glucose polymer, whereas starch includes both linear and branched components.

In biology and botany, branching describes the pattern by which stems, roots, blood vessels, neurons, and other structures split into multiple sub-branches. Branching affects growth form, surface area, transport efficiency, and function. In forestry, branching can influence tree shape and resource allocation.

In computing and mathematics, branching refers to divergence in paths. In programming, conditional statements create branches that lead to different execution paths. In mathematics and physics, branching describes points where a structure changes behavior, such as branched coverings in topology or certain complex-analytic structures.