"Topological defects" refer to irregularities or imperfections that occur in the structure of certain materials or systems. These defects can arise when a material undergoes a phase transition, such as from a liquid to a solid, which causes its microscopic arrangement to change in a non-uniform or distorted manner. These defects are significant because they can have distinct properties and affect the behavior of the material or system, leading to interesting physical phenomena or useful applications in various fields.
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