ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Affine root system

Okay kiddo, so an affine root system is a set of points that are arranged in a certain way. Think of it like a bunch of dots on a piece of paper, but they have a special pattern.

Now, these dots are not just any random dots. They have some rules that make them special. For example, they are arranged in such a way that they look like a tree or a snowflake. Each dot is connected to other dots in a certain way, so you can't just move them around wherever you want.

In math, these dots are called vectors, which are like arrows that give you direction and magnitude. Affine root systems show how these vectors are related to each other. They have some very specific rules that are like a secret code, and mathematicians have figured out how to use this code to solve problems.

Now, why are affine root systems important? They help mathematicians understand and solve problems in different areas like geometry, physics, and even computer science! So if you like math, maybe when you grow up you can study affine root systems and use them to solve really cool problems!