In functional dependencies, if B is dependent on A, and C is dependent on B, what is the relationship called?

In the context of functional dependencies within a database, the relationship that exists when B is dependent on A, and C is dependent on B is referred to as a transitive dependency.

A transitive dependency means that if a value of one attribute can be determined by another through an intermediary attribute, it indicates a sequence of dependencies. For example, if A determines B (A → B) and B determines C (B → C), it follows that A indirectly determines C (A → C). This connection is fundamental in normalization processes within database design, as it helps to identify and eliminate redundancy by recognizing how multiple attributes are interrelated through functional dependencies.

This understanding of transitive dependencies is critical for designing databases that maintain data integrity and reduce duplication. By recognizing and addressing these dependencies, database designers can create a more efficient structure that adheres to normalization principles.