Final answer:
An equals predicate is a selection condition in database queries where a field must match exactly the specified condition. It is essential for filtering data accurately according to specific requirements.
Step-by-step explanation:
A selection condition that dictates that the value in the specified field must precisely match the condition is known as a search criterion or, more technically, an equals predicate. In database queries, this is often represented in a syntax similar to fieldname = 'value', where 'value' is the condition the field must meet exactly. The use of this conditional can be seen in many query languages, such as SQL, and it forms the basis for filtering data sets according to specific requirements.
The idea of an equals predicate is fundamental to creating efficient and accurate data queries. When a program or query searches a database or data set, the equals predicate ensures that only records which match the specified condition exactly are returned or affected.