What does "Branch Point" mean?

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A branch point is a special type of point found in certain shapes or spaces, especially in math and physics. Imagine a point where different paths meet. When you move around this point, you can end up in different places depending on the direction you take.

In the context of shapes like the Riemann sphere, a branch point can change how we look at relationships between different areas. It creates a point where things can split into different layers or coverings. This is important when studying how these shapes behave and interact with each other.

Understanding branch points helps scientists and mathematicians analyze complex structures and solve problems related to these shapes.