Bistability

Bistability (from Latin bi = two, and Latin stabilis = steadfast, stable) is the property of bistable systems to be able to assume two possible stable states, but only by an external pulse from one state to the other to change.

Examples of bi-stable systems in the art are the flip -flop in the electronics or mechanics of the bi-stable springs. Even complex systems, such as democratic states with two major parties that alternate win a majority in Parliament, can at least temporarily be bistable.

The transition between a stable and a bistable system can be represented using the Gabelbifurkationsdiagrammen shown on the right.

• Stability theory