In mathematics, a total order or linear order is a partial order in which any two elements are comparable. That is, a total order is a binary relation on some set , which satisfies the following for all and in :
- (reflexive).
- If and then (transitive).
- If and then (antisymmetric).
- or (strongly connected, formerly called totality).
Requirements 1. to 3. just make up the definition of a partial order.Reflexivity (1.) already follows from strong connectedness (4.), but is required explicitly by many authors nevertheless, to indicate the kinship to partial orders.Total orders are sometimes also called simple, connex, or full orders.