In relational terminology, a row of a table is synonymous with which term?
Database
The Relational Model and Normalization
Difficulty: Easy
Choose an option
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Arecord.
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Brelation.
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Ccolumn.
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Dfield.
Answer
Correct Answer: record.
Explanation
Introduction / Context:Different database communities use slightly different terms. Knowing standard synonyms helps when reading documentation and exam questions.
Given Data / Assumptions:
- A table consists of rows and columns.
- Each row represents a single tuple, which is a set of attribute values.
- Legacy terminology often calls a row a record and a column a field.
Concept / Approach:In classical relational theory, a row is a tuple. In many practical database texts and tools, the same thing is called a record. A column is an attribute or field.
Step-by-Step Solution:
Identify that the question wants the synonym used in practice.Row corresponds to tuple; common SQL tools label it as a record.Select the option that matches this common synonym.Verification / Alternative check:Check user interfaces of DBMS tools: they typically speak of records (rows) and fields (columns).
Why Other Options Are Wrong:
- Relation is the entire table, not a row.
- Column or field refers to attributes, not tuples.
Common Pitfalls:Mixing up field and record; remember field equals column, record equals row.
Final Answer:record.