ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Abstract algebraic hierarchy

Okay, kiddo! Have you ever played with a set of building blocks or Legos? Let's imagine that these blocks are mathematical concepts -- like numbers, shapes, and patterns -- that we can put together in different ways.

Now, imagine that we can group these concepts together based on how similar they are. For example, we might put all the different types of numbers (like whole numbers, fractions, and negative numbers) in one group, and all the different types of shapes (like circles, triangles, and squares) in another group.

But wait, there's more! We can also think about how we can combine these groups to create new concepts. Just like how we can stack blocks to create a tower or build a house, we can use these mathematical concepts to create more complex ideas.

This is where abstract algebraic hierarchy comes in. It's like a big family tree that shows how these mathematical concepts are related to each other. We start with the most basic concepts -- like numbers and shapes -- and then build up to more complex ideas.

For example, we can use numbers to create something called a "group," which is a way of organizing mathematical operations (like addition and multiplication) in a certain way. We can then use groups to create something called a "ring," which is a type of mathematical structure where we can add and multiply numbers together in a specific way.

And we can keep going up the hierarchy, building more and more complex structures out of these basic concepts. It's like building a skyscraper out of building blocks -- each level relies on the one below it, but it's also distinct and more intricate.

So there you have it -- abstract algebraic hierarchy is all about grouping and combining mathematical concepts in a logical and organized way, to create new and interesting ideas. It's like building with Legos, but with numbers and shapes instead!