a theory, based on topology, for studying discontinuous processes and the mathematical models that describe them.
Origin
1970-75
British Dictionary definitions for catastrophe theory
catastrophe theory
noun
1.
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
Contemporary definitions for catastrophe theory
noun
a branch of mathematics that deals with systems which have major abrupt changes, esp. using topology to explain events