Differential graded algebra

In mathematics, in particular in homological algebra, algebraic topology, and algebraic geometry, a differential graded algebra (or DG algebra, or DGA) is an algebraic structure often used to model topological spaces. In particular, it is a graded associative algebra with a chain complex structure that is compatible with the algebra structure. A noteworthy example is the de Rham alegbra of differential forms on a manifold. DGAs have also been used extensively in the development of rational homotopy theory.