What is Process Algebra

Several process algebras have been proposed in the literature to support the notion of locality. In this chapter the authors compare some of these process algebras, namely Distributed p, Ambient Calculus, Join Calculus, M-calculus, and Kell Calculus. Specifically, they look at the locality abstractions supported by the algebras and how these abstractions interact with the communication mechanisms in the algebras, higher-order constructs, and process passivation. The authors also look at the model checking support in the algebras that allow the verification of locality-based behaviour.