Topology, the mathematical study of the properties that are preserved through the deformations, twistings, and stretchings of objects, is an important area of modern mathematics. As broad and fundamental as algebra and geometry, its study has important implications for science more generally,especially physics. Most people will have encountered topology, even if they're not aware of it, through Mobius strips, and knot problems such as the trefoil knot.In this Very Short Introduction Richard Earl gives a sense of the more visual elements of topology (looking at surfaces) as well as covering the formal definition of continuity. Considering some of the eye-opening examples that led mathematicians to recognize a need for studying topology, he payshomage to the historical people, problems, and surprises that have propelled the growth of this field.ABOUT THE SERIES: The Very Short Introductions series from Oxford University Press contains hundreds of titles in almost every subject area. These pocket-sized books are the perfect way to get ahead in a new subject quickly. Our expert authors combine facts, analysis, perspective, new ideas, andenthusiasm to make interesting and challenging topics highly readable.