What does "Formal Group" mean?

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A formal group is a mathematical concept that helps people understand how to add and multiply certain kinds of objects, especially in algebra. It is like a tool that allows mathematicians to study properties of these objects in a way that is similar to how we use numbers.

Formal groups are useful in different areas of math, including algebraic geometry and number theory. They give us a way to look at problems that involve equations and functions without needing to worry about complicated numbers.

In simple terms, you can think of a formal group as a special kind of structure that helps mathematicians organize and work with mathematical ideas more clearly. This makes it easier to connect different areas of math and find new results.