A dependent entity is defined as?

A dependent entity is defined as?

• A. Containing only unique identifiers
• B. Having a primary key that includes attributes from another entity
• C. Using only its own attributes
• D. Not relating to other entities

Answer: (B)

A dependent entity is fundamentally characterized by its primary key structure, which includes attributes from another entity. This definition signifies that the existence and identification of the dependent entity are contingent upon the existence of a related entity. In relational database design, a dependent entity usually represents a child entity that cannot exist independently. Its primary key is derived from the primary key of another entity, creating a relationship that implies a reliance on that other entity for identification. This concept is essential for maintaining referential integrity within the database, where relationships between different entities are established to ensure accurate data representation and meaningful connections. The other options do not accurately describe a dependent entity. For example, containing only unique identifiers does not capture the relationship aspect inherent to dependent entities. Using only its own attributes suggests independence rather than dependence, and not relating to other entities contradicts the very nature of a dependent entity, which is intrinsically linked to other entities. Thus, the definition that emphasizes the involvement of attributes from another entity captures the essence of a dependent entity accurately.

A dependent entity is fundamentally characterized by its primary key structure, which includes attributes from another entity. This definition signifies that the existence and identification of the dependent entity are contingent upon the existence of a related entity.

In relational database design, a dependent entity usually represents a child entity that cannot exist independently. Its primary key is derived from the primary key of another entity, creating a relationship that implies a reliance on that other entity for identification. This concept is essential for maintaining referential integrity within the database, where relationships between different entities are established to ensure accurate data representation and meaningful connections.

The other options do not accurately describe a dependent entity. For example, containing only unique identifiers does not capture the relationship aspect inherent to dependent entities. Using only its own attributes suggests independence rather than dependence, and not relating to other entities contradicts the very nature of a dependent entity, which is intrinsically linked to other entities. Thus, the definition that emphasizes the involvement of attributes from another entity captures the essence of a dependent entity accurately.