Algebraic structures are mathematical concepts that consist of a set equipped with one or more operations that follow specific rules. Common examples include groups, rings, and fields. Each structure has its own properties, such as closure, associativity, and the existence of identity and inverse elements, which help define how elements within the set interact. These structures are fundamental in various areas of mathematics and are used to study symmetry, number theory, and more. Understanding algebraic structures allows mathematicians to explore relationships between different mathematical objects and to solve complex problems systematically.