Dendritic growth refers to the formation of tree-like structures in various materials, often observed in crystals and metals. This process occurs when a material solidifies from a liquid state, leading to the development of branching patterns. The growth is influenced by factors such as temperature, concentration, and the presence of impurities. In the context of materials science, dendritic growth is significant because it affects the properties of the final product. For example, in metal casting, the structure of the dendrites can determine the strength and durability of the metal. Understanding this growth helps in optimizing manufacturing processes and improving material performance.