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catastrophe theory |
Also found in: Medical, Wikipedia, Hutchinson | 0.01 sec. |
catastrophe theoryBranch of mathematics (considered a branch of geometry) that explores how gradual changes to a system produce sudden, drastic results (though usually not as dire as the name suggests). A simple example is how a plastic coffee stirrer subjected to gradually increasing pressure from both ends will suddenly buckle in one direction or another. Other “catastrophes” include optical phenomena such as reflection or refraction of light through moving water. More speculatively, ideas from catastrophe theory have been applied by social scientists to such situations as the sudden eruption of mob violence. catastrophe theory [kə′tas·trə·fē ‚thē·ə·rē] (mathematics) A theory of mathematical structure in which smooth continuous inputs lead to discontinuous responses. How to thank TFD for its existence? Tell a friend about us, add a link to this page, add the site to iGoogle, or visit webmaster's page for free fun content. |
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| Now, those same business owners are diversifying to prevent another catastrophy. Small farmers would be on the land producing in a major catastrophy, and usually having a diversified crop. Their elaborate drawings and model landscapes-shown in two different exhibitions in Sweden--present the traces of an ecological catastrophy which has forced the surviving remnants of mankind to start human culture all over again. |
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