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What exactly is a relational database?

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Abstract

So far we have skated around the definition of a relational database. It is really tempting to believe that the use of multiple tables marks the transition to a relational database. Indeed, I have read several times that a ‘relational’ database is so called because it allows you to “relate” information held in different tables. How can I put this politely? This information is wrong. Anyone who tells you this is incorrect. If they try to sell you anything, say nothing and back carefully away.

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© 2007 Mark Whitehorn

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(2007). What exactly is a relational database?. In: Inside Relational Databases with Examples in Access. Springer, London. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-84628-687-2_21

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-84628-687-2_21

  • Publisher Name: Springer, London

  • Print ISBN: 978-1-84628-394-9

  • Online ISBN: 978-1-84628-687-2

  • eBook Packages: Computer ScienceComputer Science (R0)

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