Griffith theory, developed by A.A. Griffith in 1920, explains how cracks in materials can lead to failure. It focuses on the concept of stress concentration around a crack tip, where the material experiences higher stress than in the surrounding area. This theory helps predict when and how materials will fracture under stress. The theory is significant in fields like materials science and engineering, as it provides insights into the behavior of brittle materials. By understanding the conditions that lead to crack propagation, engineers can design safer and more durable structures, minimizing the risk of catastrophic failures.