In mathematics, a topological space (see topology) with a family of local coordinate systems related to each other by certain classes of coordinate transformations. Manifolds occur in algebraic geometry, differential equations, and classical dynamics. They are studied for their global properties by the methods of algebra and algebraic topology and form a natural domain for the global analysis of differential equations. Seealso tensor analysis.
Learn more about manifold with a free trial on Britannica.com.