Catene

Catene is the plural of catena in Italian, generally referring to a chain: a series of connected links used to convey force, secure objects, or transmit motion. In broader usage, catena can describe a sequence or chain-like structure, such as a supply chain or a chain of events. The term derives from Latin catena, via Old French chayne.

Physical chains are assemblies of links, typically made of metal such as steel or stainless steel, though synthetic chains also exist for lighter loads. Chains are rated by breaking strength and pitch, and their design varies with use: lifting and rigging chains, mooring chains for ships, and securing chains for loads. Proper maintenance, coatings, and heat treatment influence durability and safety.

In science, a polymer chain refers to a long string of repeating units, forming the backbone of polymers. In ecology, a food chain describes energy flow between organisms in an ecosystem. The term chain is also used for chain reactions in chemistry, where a reactive sequence propagates through subsequent steps.

In modern contexts, a supply chain links producers, distributors, and customers, shaping production and logistics. In forensic and legal settings, chain of custody records the sequence of individuals who handled an item of evidence. In computing, a linked list represents a chain of nodes that point to the next element.