Database Design Fundamentals Exam

What is a database and how does it function?

• A database is a type of hardware used for data storage.

• A database is an organized collection of data managed by a DBMS, allowing efficient data operations.

• A database is a collection of physical books organized by genre.

• A database is a software that only allows data to be viewed, not modified.

List three benefits of using a database system.

• Limited user access control

• Increased data redundancy

• Slower data retrieval

• 1. Improved data integrity 2. Efficient data management 3. Enhanced data security

Identify two drawbacks of database systems.

• User-friendly interface for all users.

• 1. Complexity in management and maintenance. 2. High implementation and maintenance costs.

• Easy data retrieval and analysis.

• Low risk of data loss.

Define what an entity is in the context of databases.

• An entity is a type of database query.

• An entity is a method for data retrieval.

• An entity is a programming language used in databases.

• An entity is a distinct object or thing in a database that has attributes and can be identified.

What are the attributes of an entity? Provide examples.

• Attributes of an entity are only numerical values like '1', '2', '3'.

• Attributes of an entity include actions such as 'Drive' and 'Stop'.

• Attributes of an entity are irrelevant to its definition.

• Attributes of an entity include properties that define it, such as 'Make', 'Model', 'Year', and 'Color' for a 'Car' entity.

Explain the concept of relations in database design.

• A relation is a programming language used for database management.

• A relation is a type of database query that retrieves data.

• A relation in database design is a table consisting of rows and columns that represents data and its relationships.

• A relation is a graphical representation of data flow in a system.

What are fields and columns in a database table?

• Fields are the names of the tables; columns are the data types used in the database.

• Fields and columns are interchangeable terms for the same concept in a database.

• Fields are attributes of data; columns are the vertical structures that hold these fields in a table.

• Fields are the rows in a table; columns are the horizontal structures that hold these rows.

Describe the significance of data types in database design.

• Data types are solely for aesthetic purposes.

• Data types ensure data integrity, optimize storage, enhance performance, and facilitate validation in database design.

• Data types only affect user interface design.

• Data types are irrelevant to database design.

What is data length and why is it important?

• Data length is the format of data, and it is important for user interface design.

• Data length refers to the number of records in a database.

• Data length is the size of data in bytes or characters, and it is important for efficiency, memory management, and data integrity.

• Data length is the time taken to process data, which is crucial for speed.

Differentiate between primary keys and foreign keys.

• Primary keys can be duplicated across tables.

• Foreign keys are used to create indexes in a table.

• Primary keys can be null in a table.

• Primary keys are unique identifiers for records in a table, while foreign keys link records between tables.