Accordion effect

This can happen in road traffic, foot marching, bicycle and motor racing, and, in general, to processes in a pipeline.

The accordion effect generally decreases the throughput of the system in which it occurs.

The accordion effect in road traffic refers to the typical decelerations and accelerations of a vehicle when the vehicle in front decelerates and accelerates.

[1] For this reason, the Norwegian Public Roads Administration recommends that each driver should try to follow the accelerations of the vehicle in front closely, and keeping a steady gap that is neither too small or large.

[2][3] Too small gaps and sudden braking can lead to rear ending.