Fork detection refers to the process of identifying a divergence in the blockchain. This happens when two versions of the blockchain exist simultaneously, often due to changes in protocol or transactions being processed differently.There are two main types of forks: hard forks and soft forks. A hard fork results in a permanent split, creating two separate blockchains. A soft fork, on the other hand, is backward-compatible, allowing the original chain to continue functioning without creating a new one.Detecting a fork is crucial for maintaining network integrity and ensuring that transactions are processed correctly. It helps nodes decide which chain to follow and avoid issues like double spending.Various methods are employed for fork detection, including monitoring consensus rules and analyzing block hashes. Propagation of the fork needs to be managed carefully to avoid confusion among users and prevent network instability. Proper detection and response to forks are vital for the overall health and security of the blockchain ecosystem.