Rapid processes of tetrazole decomposition serve as sources of chemical energy stored in the five-membered ring, as well as gaseous products, primarily molecular nitrogen. Due to these properties, energetic tetrazole derivatives have found applications in various fields of science, engineering and technology, for example as components of energetic materials and products, as well as in emergency rescue equipment. The review presents an alternative view of the processes of tetrazoles decomposition, focusing on the diversity, differences, and similarities of the mechanisms and degradation products formed under the action of external energy sources. Some of these products are valuable reagents for the synthesis of previously inaccessible substances, as well as promising objects of analytical, medical, and bioorthogonal chemistry.<br> Bibliography includes 140 references.