jQuery uses $ as a alias or shortcut. So if you use another javascript library (like prototype, mootools etc) that uses same alias then you are in a jQuery conflicts situation.
Use no-conflict mode to avoid jQuery conflicts:
You have to use a new variable name to replace with jQuery $.
For e.g.
<script src="jquery.js"></script>
<script src="prototype.js"></script>
<script>
var $myjq = jQuery.noConflict();
$myjq(document).ready(function() {
$myjq( "div" ).hide();
});
</script>To know more about jQuery Conflict, click here.
Immediately Invoked Function Expression:
Here is another pattern where you can use $ by wrapping your code in invoked function expression.
<script src="jquery.js"></script>
<script src="prototype.js"></script>
<script>
jQuery.noConflict();
(function( $ ) {
// Write your jQuery here using $
})( jQuery );
</script>Must Read: Steps to take when jQuery is not working

