Formal Definition
Let R be a fixed commutative ring. An associative R-algebra is an additive abelian group A which has the structure of both a ring and an R-module in such a way that ring multiplication is R-bilinear:
for all r ∈ R and x, y ∈ A. We say A is unital if it contains an element 1 such that
for all x ∈ A. Note that such an element 1 must be unique if it exists at all.
If A itself is commutative (as a ring) then it is called a commutative R-algebra.
Read more about this topic: Associative Algebra
Famous quotes containing the words formal and/or definition:
“Good gentlemen, look fresh and merrily.
Let not our looks put on our purposes,
But bear it as our Roman actors do,
With untired spirits and formal constancy.”
—William Shakespeare (1564–1616)
“The man who knows governments most completely is he who troubles himself least about a definition which shall give their essence. Enjoying an intimate acquaintance with all their particularities in turn, he would naturally regard an abstract conception in which these were unified as a thing more misleading than enlightening.”
—William James (1842–1910)