Release 10.1A: OpenEdge Getting Started:
Database Essentials

Elements of a relational database

Relational databases are based on the relational model. The relational model is a group of rules set forth by E. F. Codd based on mathematical principles (relational algebra); it defines how database management systems should function. The basic structures of a relational database (as defined by the relational model) are tables, columns (or fields), rows (or records), and keys. This section describes these elements.