Buckling is a structural failure mode that occurs when a material or structure becomes unstable under compressive stress. This can happen when a slender object, like a column or beam, is subjected to forces that exceed its critical load, causing it to bend or collapse. The phenomenon is particularly important in engineering and design, as it can lead to catastrophic failures if not properly accounted for. In civil engineering, Euler's buckling theory is often used to predict the critical load at which buckling will occur. Factors such as material properties, geometry, and boundary conditions play a significant role in determining a structure's susceptibility to buckling. Understanding these principles helps engineers design safer and more efficient structures.