ℚₚ, or the field of p-adic numbers, is a mathematical concept that extends the idea of rational numbers. It is constructed using a prime number p as a base, allowing for a different way to measure distances and convergence. In this system, numbers are represented in a way that emphasizes divisibility by p, leading to unique properties that are useful in number theory. The p-adic numbers are particularly important in various areas of mathematics, including algebraic number theory and cryptography. They provide a framework for solving equations and understanding the behavior of numbers in a way that complements traditional real number analysis.