Complex networks are structures made up of interconnected elements, often referred to as nodes, which can represent various entities such as people, computers, or biological cells. The connections between these nodes, known as edges, illustrate how these entities interact or relate to one another. Examples of complex networks include social networks, transportation systems, and the internet.
Studying complex networks helps researchers understand patterns and behaviors within these systems. By analyzing properties like connectivity, clustering, and resilience, scientists can gain insights into how information spreads, how diseases propagate, or how to optimize network performance. This field combines elements from mathematics, computer science, and sociology to explore intricate relationships.