Chapter 9

Question 1

What is a database?

Answer 1

A database is a structured collection of data that stores and organizes information for easy access and reporting.

Question 2

How do businesses use databases?

Answer 2

Businesses rely on databases to track sales, inventory, and customer information.

Question 3

What is a Database Management System (DBMS)?

Answer 3

A DBMS is a software system that manages and accesses databases, providing tools to streamline database processes.

Question 4

What is a primary key?

Answer 4

A primary key is a field that uniquely identifies each record in a table.

Question 5

True or False: Data stored in word processors is sufficient for organizational operations.

Answer 5

False

Question 6

What are the two major weaknesses of file processing systems?

Answer 6

• Redundant data
• Isolated data

Question 7

What does data redundancy lead to?

Answer 7

Data redundancy leads to wasted space and increases the risk of inconsistencies.

Question 8

What is the difference between sorting and filtering data?

Answer 8

Sorting arranges records according to specified criteria, while filtering hides records that do not meet certain conditions.

Question 9

What is the advantage of the database approach over file processing systems?

Answer 9

The database approach reduces data redundancy, improves data integrity, and allows for shared access to data.

Question 10

Fill in the blank: A _______ is a request to retrieve, insert, update, or delete data from a database.

Answer 10

database query

Question 11

What are the main components of a database?

Answer 11

• Character
• Field
• Record
• Table

Question 12

What type of data can a field contain?

Answer 12

A field can contain letters, numbers, or special characters, depending on its data type.

Question 13

What is a relational database?

Answer 13

A relational database is a system that stores data in tables with rows and columns, allowing relationships between tables.

Question 14

What is a foreign key?

Answer 14

A foreign key is a field in one table that contains data from the primary key of another table.

Question 15

Describe a one-to-many relationship in a database.

Answer 15

A one-to-many relationship connects each record in one table to one or more records in another table.

Question 16

What is a nonrelational database?

Answer 16

A nonrelational database stores data in a flexible, non-tabular format, often using key-value pairs or documents.

Question 17

What are forms in a database?

Answer 17

Forms are user-friendly interfaces for entering and editing data in a database.

Question 18

What purpose do reports serve in a database?

Answer 18

Reports are formatted outputs designed to display and summarize data for analysis or presentation purposes.

Question 19

List the common data types used in databases.

Answer 19

• Text
• Number
• AutoNumber
• Currency
• Date
• Memo
• Yes/No
• Hyperlink
• Object
• Attachment

Question 20

What is the significance of data integrity in a database?

Answer 20

Data integrity ensures that the data in a database is accurate and consistent.

Question 21

What is the role of a DBMS in developing programs?

Answer 21

A DBMS provides tools to assist in developing programs that use the database, reducing development time.

Question 22

True or False: A many-to-many relationship allows one record on one side to connect to only one record on the other side.

Answer 22

False

Question 23

What is the purpose of a student table in a school database?

Answer 23

The student table tracks information about enrolled students.

Question 24

What does a filter do in a database?

Answer 24

A filter temporarily hides records in a table based on specified criteria.

Question 25

What is the highest level in the data hierarchy?

Answer 25

A table is the highest level in the data hierarchy.

Question 26

What is an example of a protected database?

Answer 26

Subscription-based research platforms are examples of protected databases.

Question 27

What is an auto number field?

Answer 27

An auto number field is a unique number automatically assigned by the DBMS to each added record.

Question 28

Fill in the blank: The _______ approach allows nontechnical users to access and maintain data.

Answer 28

database

Question 29

What does the database approach ensure regarding data security?

Answer 29

The database approach restricts access to certain data items, allowing only authorized users to view or modify them.

Question 30

What are the components of a record in a database?

Answer 30

A record is a group of related fields.

Question 31

What is the function of a query in a database?

Answer 31

Queries retrieve, insert, update, or delete data from a database.

Question 32

How does the database approach reduce development time?

Answer 32

It often is easier and faster to develop programs that use the database approach due to the tools provided by DBMSs.

Question 33

What is a composite key?

Answer 33

A composite key is a primary key that consists of multiple fields.

Question 34

What is the relationship between tables in a relational database?

Answer 34

Tables in a relational database can have relationships defined by primary and foreign keys.

Question 35

What is the benefit of having shared data in a database environment?

Answer 35

Shared data allows multiple programs and users to access the same information efficiently.