Notation for total specialization — evaluate the statement: “Total specialization is represented by double lines between the supertype and subtype on an Enhanced ER (EER) diagram.” State whether this is correct or incorrect.

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: Correct

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
In EER diagrams, participation of a supertype in its subtypes can be total (every supertype instance must be a member of at least one subtype) or partial (some supertype instances may exist with no subtype). Many notations indicate total participation using a double line between the supertype and the specialization arc or subtype connector.



Given Data / Assumptions:

  • We refer to widely used ER/EER notations (e.g., Chen style and variants).
  • Total vs. partial is distinct from disjoint vs. overlapping.
  • Tools may vary in glyphs but commonly use a double line for total participation.


Concept / Approach:
Total specialization means no supertype instance exists without being classified under at least one subtype. The double line visually enforces this rule on the diagram. Partial specialization uses a single line, allowing unclassified supertype instances.



Step-by-Step Solution:

Identify whether the domain requires every supertype instance to belong to a subtype (for example, every Vehicle is either Car or Truck).If yes, depict total participation with a double line from the supertype to the specialization.If not, depict partial participation with a single line.Independently specify disjointness (D) or overlap (O) as applicable.


Verification / Alternative check:
Review CASE tool help and textbook conventions; double lines are consistently used to denote total participation, confirming the statement’s correctness in mainstream notations.



Why Other Options Are Wrong:

  • “Incorrect” contradicts common notation practice.
  • “Only in Crow’s Foot” is too narrow; Chen variants also use double lines.
  • Disjointness is orthogonal to participation and does not affect the double-line rule.
  • Tool differences exist, but the double-line convention is widely recognized.


Common Pitfalls:
Confusing total participation with disjointness; forgetting to verify business rules when choosing total vs. partial; misapplying crow’s foot symbols to specialization connectors.



Final Answer:
Correct

More Questions from ER Model and Business Rules

Discussion & Comments

No comments yet. Be the first to comment!
Join Discussion