Bifurcation Analysis

The literal meaning of bifurcation is, "division into two parts, branches or aspects" (Answers). In mathematics, this 'division' is reference to when non-linear equation suddenly switches from having one solution to having multiple solution when a parameter of the system is varied. The point at which bifurcation occurs is referred to as the 'bifurcation point.' If a system is bistable it can be stable, or at rest in two distinct states.