An attribute represented with a dashed oval line is a multivalued attribute.

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BlackTom AI · Accepted Answer

Question context: In ER modeling, attributes can be depicted with various line styles or shapes to convey special meanings. Here we assess whether a dashed oval indicates a multivalued attribute.
Option 1: True. This says that an attribute with a dashed oval represents a multivalued attribute. This is incorrect because, in Chen notation, dashed ovals denote derived attributes, not multivalued ones. A multivalued attribute is typically shown with a double (nested) oval, not a dashed line. A misinterpretation here stems from confusing the visual cue for derivation with multiplicity.
Option 2: False. This states that a dashed oval does not indicate a multivalued attribute. Since the dashed oval is conventionally used for derived attributes, this statement correctly summarizes the standard notation. A derived attribute is something whose value is computed from other attributes, such as age derived from birthdate, or total price derived from unit price and quantity. The distinction is important because it clarifies what information can be inferred directly versus what must be calculated.
Additional note: If students are unsure about other notational cues, recall that multivalued attributes are usually shown with a double oval (two concentric ellipses), while derived attributes use a dashed ellipse. This reinforces why the given statement in Option 1 is false and why Option 2 is true.

BUSI_V 335 101 102 2025W1 Assignment 5 - Database Design, ERDs

An attribute represented with a dashed oval line is a multivalued attribute.

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