The Node.js Event Loop: libuv Phases, Timers & nextTick

Step through the server-side event loop, the one libuv runs — not the browser model. Walk the phase cycle (timers, pending callbacks, poll, check, close), then settle the classics: setImmediate vs setTimeout(0) vs process.nextTick, and exactly where microtasks drain between phases. Every ordering puzzle here was executed and verified on Node.js. Explanation-first feedback reveals the why after each answer.