A node replaces its current chain tip when it learns of a valid branch with more accumulated work.
Chain reorganization is best understood as part of a system rather than as an isolated definition. Its related coordinates show the mechanisms, incentives and historical records that give the term practical meaning.
Chain reorganization sits between protocol rules, economic incentives and software operated by independent participants. In Bitcoin, no component is authoritative by itself: miners propose history, fully validating nodes enforce validity, and users decide which rules and software they accept.
Understanding Chain reorganization helps distinguish a verifiable Bitcoin mechanism or historical record from slogans, products and market narratives.
For the clearest picture, read this entry together with Timechain, Confirmation, Stale block, Proof of Work. The reverse links also lead from Confirmation, Stale block, Probabilistic settlement finality.
Linked to related atlas coordinates
Grounded in a source record
Explains function and trade-offs
Part of the open Bitcoin knowledge graph