Abelian

/əˈbeɪliən/ adjective

Definition

In mathematics, relating to a group where multiplication or addition is commutative (order doesn't matter).

Etymology

Named after Norwegian mathematician Niels Henrik Abel (1802-1829); '-ian' denotes 'of or related to' in scientific nomenclature.

Kelly Says

Abelian groups are fundamental to modern algebra and cryptography—ironically, Abel died in poverty at 26, never knowing how his name would revolutionize mathematics!

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