What is the relationship between XPath and XPointer?
A.
XPath is a simple path language that uses patterns and expressions to reference portions of an XML document tree. XPointer extends XPath by offering more specific referencing capabilities within XML documents. XPointer also serves as the basis for identifying link sources and targets in XLink, which is the standard linking technology for XML.
Q.
Why bother learning about XLink if it still isn't supported to any serious degree in major web browsers?
A.
The reason for learning about XLink has to do with the fact that it could possibly represent the future of XML document linking. The W3C spent years developing XLink with the goal of it becoming a standard technology with wide support. Admittedly, it's difficult to get excited about a technology that is somewhat intangible at the moment, but that doesn't necessarily lessen the future significance of XLink.
Q.
Assuming XLink is eventually adopted by web browsers, how will it affect the HTML anchor link?
A.
The HTML anchor link (a) is a unique element in HTML that has special meaning to web browsers. In terms of XML, the HTML a element is just another element that happens to be interpreted as a linking element. When browsers add support for XLink, it will be very easy for them to support the a element for backward compatibility, while also supporting new XLink links. Don't forget that with XLink you can create your own anchor links with very little effort.
