Bifurcations refer to points in a system where a small change can lead to a significant shift in behavior or structure. This concept is often observed in mathematics and physics, particularly in the study of dynamical systems. At a bifurcation point, a system may split into two distinct paths or states, leading to different outcomes. In nature, bifurcations can be seen in various phenomena, such as the branching of rivers or the formation of new species in evolution. Understanding bifurcations helps scientists predict how systems will evolve over time and respond to changes in conditions.