Mastering Relational Algebra
Relational Algebra is the mathematical foundation of modern relational databases like SQL. It provides a theoretical framework for manipulating table data using operators. This Relational Algebra Calculator allows you to practice, test, and visualize these operations without setting up a database server.
Supported Operations
- Selection (σ): Filters rows based on a condition. Syntax:
σ condition (Relation). Example:σ age > 20 (Students). - Projection (π): Selects specific columns. Syntax:
π col1, col2 (Relation). Example:π name, id (Students). - Natural Join (⨝): Joins two tables on common columns. Syntax:
R ⨝ S. - Cartesian Product (×): Combines every row of R with every row of S. Syntax:
R × S. - Union (∪): Combines rows from two tables (must have same schema).
- Difference (-): Rows in R that are not in S.
- Rename (ρ): Renames a relation or columns. Syntax:
ρ NewName (R).
How to Use This Tool
- Define Relations: On the left sidebar, add tables. Enter data in CSV format (first row as headers).
- Write Query: Use the query bar. Click the symbol buttons to insert special characters like π or σ.
- Run & Export: Click "Run Query" to see the result table. You can then download it as a CSV file.
Why Use a Simulator?
Learning SQL often hides the underlying logic of query execution. By using a Relational Algebra Simulator, you understand how the database engine optimizes and processes data step-by-step. This is essential for Computer Science students and backend engineers aiming for optimization mastery.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, we designed this calculator to be 100% responsive. You can build complex queries on your phone using the helper toolbar.
Does it work offline?Absolutely. This tool is a client-side application. Once loaded, it requires no internet connection to process queries.
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