arXiv · 2207.08572
Conjunctive Queries, Existentially Quantified Systems of Equations and Finite Substitutions
Abstract
This report presents an elementary theory of unification for positive conjunctive queries. A positive conjunctive query is a formula constructed from propositional constants, equations and atoms using the conjunction $\wedge$ and the existential quantifier $\exists$. In particular, empty queries correspond to existentially quantified systems of equations -- called $\cal E$-formulas. We provide an algorithm which transforms any conjunctive query into a solved form. We prove some lattice-theoretic properties of queries. In particular, the quotient set of $\cal E$-formulas under an equivalence relation forms a complete lattice. Then we present another lattice -- a lattice of finite substitutions. We prove that the both lattices are isomorphic. Finally, we introduce the notion of application of substitutions to formulas and clarify its relationship to $\cal E$-formulas. This theory can be regarded as a basis for alternative presentation of logic programming.
Explore related subjects
Keep this discovery
Explore connections, maps & timelines
Ján Komara. 2022-07-18. Conjunctive Queries, Existentially Quantified Systems of Equations and Finite Substitutions. https://arxiv.org/abs/2207.08572
Cite the original work for its findings. Save a collection to share your selection of sources.