Why the straw broke the camel’s back
Using topological methods, scientists have come a step closer to understanding the mathematical theories of sudden changes such as the proverbial straw that broke the camel's back. By applying the governing notion of global singularity theory, namely Thom polynomials, in various settings, the 'Equivariant topology in algebraic geometry' (Equitop in alggeo) researchers set out to get a clearer picture of sudden changes. They examined this phenomenon in physics (where, for example, water suddenly boils, or ice melts), in biology (looking for instance at population models and cell growth), and in human society (using changes in stock markets, for instance). Under the Equitop in alggeo project, the researchers extended their expertise in this area from topology to modern geometry and related geometric and algebraic combinatorics. For example, they studied the global properties of singularities and found several hitherto unknown infinite sequences of Thom polynomials. The researchers said that a key conclusion of the project was a 'better understanding of sudden changes caused by a smooth alteration of parameters'.