Comparing linear and branching time temporal logics

Abstract

An important division of temporal logics is into linear and branching time. Here we propose a general framework for modal and temporal logics and within it offer a formal criterion for distinguishing linear from branching logics. This distinction is based on the CTL* framework. We offer a sound and complete axiomatization of CTL* formulas and we also contrast the general expressiveness of linear and branching time logics.