What is non-algebraic structure

$\begingroup$

If an algebraic structure is a set of operations on a set of elements, what is a non-algebraic structure?

$\endgroup$ 1

1 Answer

$\begingroup$

As soon as we allow relations, we've left the realm of algebras (in the universal algebra sense). For example, a linear ordering is a set $X$ together with a binary relation $<$ such that [stuff]; a linear ordering is definitely a set with structure, but that structure isn't given by functions, so it's not an algebra.

There are also structures that mix relation and function symbols, such as ordered groups/rings/fields. And something like a topological group is even further from this picture, since the "additional structure" (= the topology) exists at a "higher level" than just functions/relations on the underlying set.

$\endgroup$ 3

Your Answer

Sign up or log in

Sign up using Google Sign up using Facebook Sign up using Email and Password

Post as a guest

By clicking “Post Your Answer”, you agree to our terms of service, privacy policy and cookie policy

You Might Also Like