Branching point Crossword Clue

Today's (16 November 2020) crossword provided to us by Wall Street Journal and the clue is "Branching point".
The right answer or rather the best answer listed below:

Understanding Today's Crossword Puzzle

The clue for today's crossword puzzle is "Branching point", and the correct answer for this clue is "NODE".

A node is a point in a network where multiple branches or connections converge. In the context of this crossword puzzle clue, "branching point" refers to a specific location or point in a system where different paths or connections intersect.

Let's further explore why "NODE" is the appropriate answer:

1. In computer science and networking, a node represents a connection point or a device within a network. It could be a computer, a server, a router, or any other networked device.
2. In mathematics, a node can refer to a point where two or more lines or curves intersect, forming a junction.
3. In biology, a node can represent a region of tissue where multiple blood vessels or nerves merge together.
4. In graph theory, a node is a fundamental element that represents a discrete entity or an object. Nodes, also known as vertices, are connected by edges and form a network or a graph.

Considering the clues given in the puzzle and the range of possibilities, "NODE" emerges as the most suitable answer that fits the definition of a branching point. It is a concise and accurate term to describe a point where different paths converge, whether it's in the context of computer networks, mathematics, biology, or graph theory.

By using "NODE" as the answer for "Branching point," the crossword puzzle solvers can easily deduce the connection between the clue and the answer. The answer aligns perfectly with the given clue and provides a specific term related to the concept of branching points.

Definition of "NODE"

a point in a network or diagram at which lines or pathways intersect or branch

Example :

the intersections of two or more such arteries would clearly become major nodes of traffic and urban activity

the company's internal worldwide area network now has some 22,000 nodes

every node on the Internet

 The Crossword clue "Branching point" published 5 time/s & has 1 answer/s. 

Crossword	Date	Answer
Wall Street Journal	16 November 2020	NODE
New York Times	19 November 2017	NODE
Premier Sunday – King Feature Syndicate	23 December 2012	NODE
L.A. Times Daily	22 February 2011	NODE