catastrophe theory
noun Mathematics.
a theory, based on topology, for studying discontinuous processes and the mathematical models that describe them.
Origin of catastrophe theory
First recorded in 1970–75
Words nearby catastrophe theory
catarrhine,
catastalsis,
catastaltic,
catastasis,
catastrophe,
catastrophe theory,
catastrophic,
catastrophic reaction,
catastrophism,
catastrophize,
catatonia
British Dictionary definitions for catastrophe theory
catastrophe theory
noun
- a mathematical theory that classifies surfaces according to their form
- the popular application of this theory to the explanation of abruptly changing phenomena, as by the discontinuity of a line on the topmost fold of a folded surface