relational data model

database (Or "relational model") A data model introduced

by E.F. Codd in 1970, particularly well suited for business

data management. In this model, data are organised in

tables. The set of names of the columns is called the

"schema" of the table.

Here is an example table with the schema (account number,

amount) and 3 lines.

account number amount

-------------- ---------

12343243546456 +30000.00

23149875245824 +2345.33

18479827492874 -123.25

The data can be manipulated using a relational algebra.

SQL is a standard language for talking to a database built

on the relational model (a "relational database").

["A relational model for large shared data banks"

Communications of ACM 13:6, pp 377-387].

(1998-10-05)