A formulation of the RDF data model

These pages contain a set theory model of the RDF level 0 and level 1 specification based on an interpretation of "Resource Description Framework (RDF) Model and Syntax", W3C Working Draft 16 Feb 1998.

These pages use mathematical symbols implemeted using the <FONT FACE = SYMBOL> element. In order to view the pages correctly you must have the SYMBOL font installed on your system.

Comments and corrections are welcome.

• A formulation of RDF layer 0.
• A formulation of RDF layer 1.
• An older, messier, formulation of both layers.

Some possible uses of this model:

• To clarify points from the specification.
• To understand RDF via computer-science conventions for describing an abstract data model.
• To picture RDF other than arcs and nodes.
• To help in proving properties of the RDF model.
• To help in developing different encoding syntaxes (i.e. encondings other than XML).
• To help in forming relationships between RDF and other data models. For example, to pluck RDF out of XML and store it efficiently in a relational database.