In which scenario would a one-to-many relationship be applied?

In which scenario would a one-to-many relationship be applied?

• A. Between two independent entities
• B. When one entity has multiple relationships
• C. Between three or more entities
• D. When multiple entities relate to a single entity

Answer: (B)

A one-to-many relationship is fundamental in database design and is characterized by a single entity being related to multiple entities. This type of relationship typically describes a scenario where one record in a table can correspond to multiple records in another table. In the context of the question, option B effectively captures this concept by stating that one entity has multiple relationships. Here, "one entity" refers to a single record in a table (the 'one' side), while "multiple relationships" suggests that this record can connect to numerous records in a different table (the 'many' side). For example, consider a database that involves authors and their books; one author can write multiple books, illustrating the one-to-many relationship. The other options don't represent a one-to-many relationship accurately. An independent relationship between two entities implies no direct connection or dependency, which doesn't fit the definition of one-to-many. A relationship involving three or more entities may suggest more complex interactions, potentially involving many-to-many relationships. Lastly, when multiple entities relate to a single entity describes a many-to-one relationship rather than a one-to-many relationship, as it emphasizes multiple sources pointing to a single destination rather than the opposite.

A one-to-many relationship is fundamental in database design and is characterized by a single entity being related to multiple entities. This type of relationship typically describes a scenario where one record in a table can correspond to multiple records in another table.

In the context of the question, option B effectively captures this concept by stating that one entity has multiple relationships. Here, "one entity" refers to a single record in a table (the 'one' side), while "multiple relationships" suggests that this record can connect to numerous records in a different table (the 'many' side). For example, consider a database that involves authors and their books; one author can write multiple books, illustrating the one-to-many relationship.

The other options don't represent a one-to-many relationship accurately. An independent relationship between two entities implies no direct connection or dependency, which doesn't fit the definition of one-to-many. A relationship involving three or more entities may suggest more complex interactions, potentially involving many-to-many relationships. Lastly, when multiple entities relate to a single entity describes a many-to-one relationship rather than a one-to-many relationship, as it emphasizes multiple sources pointing to a single destination rather than the opposite.