Topological: meaning, definitions and examples
🔗
topological
[ˌtɒpəˈlɒdʒɪkəl ]
Definitions
mathematics
Relating to or concerned with the topological properties of a space or geometric figure that are unaltered by elastic deformations such as stretching or twisting.
Synonyms
geometric, mathematical, structural.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
---|---|
topological |
Used in mathematics and science to refer to properties that are preserved under continuous transformations such as stretching or bending, but not tearing or gluing.
|
geometric |
Used to describe anything related to geometry, which is the branch of mathematics that deals with the shapes, sizes, and properties of figures and spaces.
|
mathematical |
Broadly used to describe anything related to mathematics, including concepts, theorems, models, and calculations.
|
structural |
Commonly used to describe the arrangement and relations between the parts of a system, object, or conceptual framework. Often used in engineering and architecture.
|
Examples of usage
- The topological study of knots and surfaces is a key area in mathematics.
- Topological spaces are widely used in various branches of mathematics.
computing
Relating to the arrangement of nodes or devices in a computer network.
Synonyms
arranged, connected, networked.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
---|---|
topological |
Used in scientific and mathematical contexts to describe properties that are preserved through deformations, twistings, and stretchings. Also used in describing relationships and structures without necessarily referring to physical attributes.
|
networked |
Used primarily in a technical or organizational context where forming a network is involved, particularly in computing or social systems. Indicates that multiple entities are interactively connected.
|
connected |
Suitable for situations where indicating a relationship or linkage between two or more entities is required. This can be a physical connection or a conceptual one.
|
arranged |
Used in everyday situations to describe something that has been put in a specific order or organized in a particular manner. Commonly used for physical items and schedules.
|
Examples of usage
- The topological structure of the network determines its efficiency and reliability.
- Topological analysis helps in optimizing the performance of computer networks.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- The word 'topological' is derived from 'topology', which comes from the Greek words 'topos' meaning 'place' and 'logia' meaning 'study'.
- The term 'topology' was first used in the 18th century, but it became more formalized in the 20th century with the work of mathematicians like Henri Poincaré.
Mathematics
- Topology is often referred to as 'rubber-sheet geometry' because it doesn't concern itself with exact shapes, but with their properties when stretched or deformed.
- One famous concept in topology is the 'Klein bottle', which is a one-sided surface where water poured in continually flows out without end.
- Topology plays a crucial role in various mathematical fields, including algebraic topology, which involves the study of shapes as algebraic structures.
Art and Design
- Some modern artists use topological concepts in their work, creating pieces that explore spatial relationships and forms, resembling objects that could 'change' their shape.
- Artists like M.C. Escher incorporated topological principles in their artwork, creating impossible structures that challenge our perception of space.
Computer Science
- In computer science, topological data analysis helps to uncover the structure of data, revealing patterns that are not immediately visible.
- Networks, graphs, and the arrangements of connections between different nodes can often be studied using topological methods, impacting algorithms and data processing.
Physics
- In modern physics, topology is significant in quantum computing and condensed matter physics, where the 'topological phase' of a material offers unique properties.
- Certain topological materials can conduct electricity on their surface while acting as insulators in their bulk, leading to revolutionary technological advances.
Translations
Translations of the word "topological" in other languages:
🇵🇹 topológico
🇮🇳 टोपोलॉजिकल (टोपोलॉजी से संबंधित)
🇩🇪 topologisch
🇮🇩 topologi
🇺🇦 топологічний
🇵🇱 topologiczny
🇯🇵 位相的 (いそうてき)
🇫🇷 topologique
🇪🇸 topológico
🇹🇷 topolojik
🇰🇷 위상적인 (위상과 관련된)
🇸🇦 طوبولوجي
🇨🇿 topologický
🇸🇰 topologický
🇨🇳 拓扑的 (tàpū de)
🇸🇮 topološki
🇮🇸 toppfræðilegur
🇰🇿 топологиялық
🇬🇪 ტოპოლოგიური
🇦🇿 topoloji
🇲🇽 topológico