John Thorp (mathematician)

John Thorp was an American mathematician renowned for his contributions to the field of differential geometry and topology, particularly in the study of smooth structures on manifolds. His work helped deepen understanding of how shapes and spaces can be continuously transformed without tearing or gluing. Thorp's research has applications in physics, especially in understanding the geometric structure of space-time in general relativity. While not a household name, his contributions have influenced modern mathematical approaches to complex geometric problems and advanced the theoretical framework underlying various scientific disciplines.