Commutative algebra is a branch of mathematics that deals with the study of commutative rings, their ideals, and modules over them. It mainly focuses on the algebraic structures of rings, fields, and ideals. Other related terms that can be used interchangeably with commutative algebra are ring theory, commutative ring theory, and algebraic geometry. Ring theory deals with the algebraic structures of rings, which are mathematical objects that are essential in understanding modern algebra. Commutative ring theory deals with the special case of commutative rings. Algebraic geometry is another branch of mathematics that is closely related to commutative algebra, as it involves the study of geometric objects defined by polynomial equations, which can be expressed using commutative rings.