Brainscape's Knowledge GenomeTM


Top Flashcards (Certified)
All Flashcards

CS 250 > Intro > Flashcards

Intro Flashcards

(101 cards)

Start Studying
1
Q

How does the Oxford English Dictionary define a database?

A

The Oxford English Dictionary defines a database as “a set of information held in a computer.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
2
Q

Why are databases considered important for computing?

A

Databases are crucial for computing because many applications involve handling large amounts of information. Database systems provide tools for storing, searching, and managing this information efficiently.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
3
Q

Why are databases considered a ‘core topic’ in computer science and IT?

A

Databases are considered a ‘core topic’ in computer science and IT because basic concepts and skills related to database systems are assumed to be part of the skill set for computer science and IT graduates.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
4
Q

Where can databases be found in various aspects of everyday life?

A

Databases are virtually everywhere and can be found in a variety of aspects of everyday life, including library catalogues, medical records, bank accounts, stock market data, personnel systems, product catalogues, telephone directories, train timetables, airline bookings, credit card details, student records, customer histories, stock market prices, discussion boards, and many more.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
5
Q

What role do database systems play in computing applications?

A

Database systems play a crucial role in computing applications by providing a set of tools for storing, searching, and managing large amounts of information efficiently.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
6
Q

Why is it important for CS and IT graduates to have basic concepts and skills with database systems?

A

It is important for computer science and IT graduates to have basic concepts and skills with database systems because databases are fundamental to many computing applications, and proficiency in managing and utilizing databases is essential for success in these fields.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
7
Q

How were applications managed in the very early days of computing?

A

In the very early days of computing, all applications were tailor-made, and each application stored and persisted its data in files.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
8
Q

What was the characteristic of files in the early days of computing applications?

A

Each file in the early days of computing had its own format, and the program responsible for creating the file had to know and adhere to that specific format.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
9
Q

What challenge did programs face in the early days when using files?

A

In the early days, any program using files had to know the format of the files it was interacting with. This lack of standardization made it challenging for different programs to work with the same set of files.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
10
Q

How did the program’s knowledge of file formats affect interoperability in the early days?

A

In the early days, interoperability was limited as any other program wanting to use the files had to be aware of and compatible with the specific file format used by the creating program.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
11
Q

What was a common characteristic of data storage formats in the early days of computing applications?

A

Each file in the early days had its own unique format, and programs were required to be aware of and designed to handle the specific format of the data they were using or creating.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
12
Q

What was the principle regarding data copies in the early days of computing?

A

In the early days of computing, the principle was to keep only one copy of the data.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
13
Q

What was the expectation for applications in terms of file format knowledge?

A

All applications were expected to know the file format in the early days of computing.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
14
Q

What was the requirement for data in the context of all applications?

A

In the early days, data for all applications had to be present, emphasizing a single, centralized copy of the data.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
15
Q

How did the principle of keeping one copy of data impact data management?

A

Keeping one copy of data in the early days impacted data management by requiring a centralized approach and necessitating that all applications reference and use this single copy.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
16
Q

What was a common challenge associated with the requirement for all applications to know the file format?

A

A common challenge was that all applications had to be designed to understand and conform to the specific file format, limiting interoperability and data exchange between diverse programs.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
17
Q

What is one of the ongoing problems mentioned in managing data in computing?

A

Concurrency, specifically dealing with multiple simultaneous changes to data, is mentioned as an ongoing problem in managing data in computing.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
18
Q

What is a concern related to security in the context of data management?

A

Security is a concern, particularly the issue that everyone can see everything, as highlighted in the challenges of managing data.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
19
Q

What can pose challenges when dealing with data formats?

A

Additions or changes to data format are noted as potential challenges when managing data in computing.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
20
Q

Why is addressing concurrency important in data management?

A

Addressing concurrency is important in data management to ensure that multiple simultaneous changes to data do not result in conflicts or inconsistencies, maintaining data integrity.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
21
Q

How can the issues of concurrency be addressed in data management?

A

One solution is to introduce a program in the middle that can coordinate access, preventing simultaneous access problems by managing and controlling interactions.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
22
Q

What additional benefits can a program in the middle provide?

A

A program in the middle can provide extra integrity and security checks, enhancing data reliability and safeguarding against unauthorized access.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
23
Q

What shift in approach does the statement “Applications link with DBMS rather than data files” suggest?

A

The statement suggests a shift from applications interacting directly with data files to applications linking with a Database Management System (DBMS) for improved data management.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
24
Q

How does the presence of a program in the middle impact data integrity and security?

A

The program in the middle can enhance data integrity and security by implementing coordination mechanisms to avoid simultaneous access issues and by adding checks to ensure the validity and security of data transactions.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
25
What role does the program in the middle play in the transition from data files to a DBMS?
The program in the middle serves as an intermediary, facilitating the transition from applications directly interacting with data files to applications linking with a Database Management System (DBMS) for more efficient and controlled data management.
26
How were early databases organized in terms of development?
Early databases were organized by the developer, indicating a developer-centric approach to structuring and managing data.
27
What was a characteristic of new functions in early databases?
New functions in early databases were specifically created and were not designed to be reusable, limiting the flexibility and efficiency of the database system.
28
Why was adding new queries to early databases considered complicated?
Adding new queries to early databases was complicated, possibly due to a lack of standardized methods and tools, making the process cumbersome and less user-friendly.
29
What was the state of standards in early databases?
In the early stages, there were no standards that were database-specific, contributing to a lack of uniformity and interoperability among different database systems.
30
What challenges were associated with data duplication and data dependencies in early databases?
Data duplication and data dependencies were prevalent challenges in early databases, leading to issues related to data consistency, integrity, and overall database efficiency.
31
How did early databases fall short in addressing aspects like security, recovery, and concurrency?
Early databases did not effectively address aspects such as security, recovery, and concurrency, indicating a lack of robust mechanisms to handle these critical aspects of data management.
32
Who introduced the relational model in 1970?
E. F. Codd introduced the relational model in 1970, marking a significant development in the field of database management.
33
How is information stored in the relational model?
In the relational model, information is stored as records in relations, which are commonly known as tables.
34
What is a notable characteristic of the relational model?
The relational model is based on a sound mathematical basis, providing a formal and well-defined structure for organizing and managing data.
35
What aspects of data does the relational model cover?
The relational model covers key aspects of data, including structure (how data is organized in tables), integrity (ensuring the accuracy and consistency of data), and manipulation (performing operations on the data).
36
What are relations in the context of the relational model?
In the relational model, relations are tables that store records, representing a collection of related information organized in a structured format.
37
What is the ANSI/SPARC Architecture, and when was it proposed?
The ANSI/SPARC Architecture is a framework for Database Management Systems (DBMS) that was proposed in 1975 by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) Standards Planning Requirements Committee (SPARC).
38
How many levels does the ANSI/SPARC Architecture propose, and what are they?
The ANSI/SPARC Architecture proposes a three-tier/level architecture: Internal Level: Designed for system designers. Conceptual Level: Intended for database designers. External Level: Tailored for database users.
39
What is the purpose of the Internal Level in the ANSI/SPARC Architecture?
The Internal Level is designed for system designers and focuses on the internal details of how data is stored and processed within the database system.
40
Who is the Conceptual Level of the ANSI/SPARC Architecture intended for?
The Conceptual Level is intended for database designers, providing a high-level representation of the entire database without delving into implementation details.
41
What is the role of the External Level in the ANSI/SPARC Architecture?
The External Level is tailored for database users, offering a view of the database that is specific to their needs and shielding them from the complexities of the underlying database structure.
42
What aspect of data does the Internal Level of the ANSI/SPARC Architecture primarily deal with?
The Internal Level of the ANSI/SPARC Architecture primarily deals with the physical storage of data, including the structure of records on disk, organization of files, pages, blocks, as well as the implementation of indexes and ordering of records.
43
Who is the Internal Level intended for in the context of the ANSI/SPARC Architecture?
The Internal Level is intended for database system programmers who are responsible for the implementation and maintenance of the underlying database system.
44
What is the role of the Internal Level in relation to data storage?
The Internal Level is concerned with the physical storage details of data, specifying how data is organized on disk, including the structure of files, pages, and blocks, as well as the implementation of indexes for efficient data retrieval.
45
Who would typically work with the Internal Level information in the context of a database system?
Database system programmers would typically work with the information at the Internal Level as they are responsible for implementing and managing the low-level details of the database system.
46
What is the primary focus of the Conceptual Level in the ANSI/SPARC Architecture?
The Conceptual Level in the ANSI/SPARC Architecture primarily deals with the organization of the entire database content, providing a high-level view that abstracts away unnecessary details.
47
Who typically uses the information at the Conceptual Level?
The Conceptual Level is used by Database Administrators (DBAs) and application programmers who need to work with a high-level representation of the database structure.
48
What kind of abstractions does the Conceptual Level employ?
The Conceptual Level uses abstractions to remove unnecessary details, such as internal-level file formats, providing a more generalized and simplified representation of the database.
49
What is a notable characteristic of the metadata at the Conceptual Level?
The database at the Conceptual Level holds metadata, which refers to data about data. This metadata includes structural information for tables, primary keys, foreign keys, and other essential components.
50
What is the role of the Conceptual Level in terms of database abstraction?
The Conceptual Level provides a level of abstraction that simplifies the representation of the entire database, making it easier for DBAs and application programmers to work with the database without being concerned with low-level implementation details.
51
What is the primary function of the External Level in the ANSI/SPARC Architecture?
The External Level in the ANSI/SPARC Architecture provides the view determined by the user, allowing users to interact with the database in a way that suits their specific needs.
52
What flexibility does the External Level offer regarding data presentation?
At the External Level, data may be hidden or presented in a suitable form, offering flexibility in how users perceive and interact with the data.
53
Who typically utilizes the External Level information?
The External Level is used by both end-users and application programmers, allowing them to work with a customized view of the database tailored to their specific requirements.
54
What is a key characteristic of the External Level in terms of data visibility?
The External Level allows for the hiding of certain data, enabling users to focus only on the information relevant to their tasks or queries.
55
How does the External Level contribute to user-friendly data access?
The External Level contributes to user-friendly data access by allowing users and application programmers to work with customized views of the database, presenting data in a way that is most meaningful and convenient for their specific tasks.
56
What is meant by "logical data independence" in the context of database management?
Logical data independence refers to the concept that changes to the conceptual level, such as modifications to the structure or organization of the database, should not affect the external level. Users and applications interacting with the external level should remain unaffected by these conceptual changes.
57
How does the concept of logical data independence relate to the ANSI/SPARC Architecture?
In the ANSI/SPARC Architecture, logical data independence is one of the key principles, ensuring that modifications to the conceptual schema do not impact the external schemas used by end-users and application programmers.
58
What is meant by "physical data independence" in the context of database management?
Physical data independence refers to the idea that changes to the internal level, such as alterations to the storage structures or access methods, should not affect the conceptual level. The high-level view of the database structure should remain consistent despite changes to the internal implementation.
59
How does the concept of physical data independence contribute to the ANSI/SPARC Architecture?
Physical data independence aligns with the ANSI/SPARC Architecture by ensuring that modifications to the internal schema, which deals with the physical storage details, do not impact the conceptual schema. This separation allows for flexibility in managing the internal aspects without disrupting the overall database structure.
60
Why is the independence between internal, conceptual, and external levels important in database design?
Independence between these levels is crucial for maintaining a modular and adaptable database system. It allows for changes or optimizations at one level without necessitating adjustments at other levels, facilitating easier system evolution, maintenance, and user interface customization.
61
What is a Database Management System (DBMS)?
A Database Management System (DBMS) is software that facilitates the creation, organization, and management of databases. It provides an interface for users and applications to interact with the database, ensuring efficient storage, retrieval, and manipulation of data.
62
Can you provide examples of modern DBMSs?
Certainly, here are examples of modern Database Management Systems (DBMS): Oracle DB2 MySQL Ingres PostgreSQL Microsoft SQL Server
63
What role do DBMSs play in the context of databases?
DBMSs play a crucial role in managing databases by providing a set of tools and functionalities to create, organize, and maintain data. They ensure data integrity, security, and efficient data access for users and applications.
64
How do DBMSs contribute to data organization and retrieval?
DBMSs contribute to data organization and retrieval by implementing data structures and algorithms that optimize storage and facilitate quick and accurate retrieval of information based on user queries.
65
What are some of the functionalities provided by DBMSs?
DBMSs offer functionalities such as data definition (defining the structure of the database), data manipulation (inserting, updating, and deleting data), data retrieval (querying the database for information), and data control (ensuring data security and integrity).
66
What are some of the capabilities provided by DBMS user facilities?
DBMS user facilities enable users to: Store data: Facilitate the storage of data in a structured manner. Manage change (updates): Support the modification and updating of data. Organize data: Assist in organizing data efficiently within the database. Retrieve data: Allow users to query and retrieve data based on their requirements. Retain privacy (security): Ensure the security and privacy of the stored data. Expect it to always work: Users rely on the DBMS to consistently operate and perform its functions.
67
What is the role of DBMS user facilities in handling errors and multi-user scenarios?
DBMS user facilities are designed to: Recover from errors: Provide mechanisms to recover from errors and maintain data integrity. Avoid multi-user problems: Implement strategies to handle concurrent access by multiple users, preventing conflicts and ensuring consistency.
68
How do DBMS user facilities inform users if something goes wrong?
DBMS user facilities typically include error reporting mechanisms, notifying users if issues arise during data storage, retrieval, or other operations. This helps users understand and address problems promptly.
69
Why is the expectation for a DBMS to "always work" important?
The expectation for a DBMS to always work is essential because users rely on the system for critical data management tasks. Consistent and reliable operation is crucial for ensuring data accuracy, availability, and overall system integrity.
70
What is the significance of data privacy and security in the context of DBMS user facilities?
Data privacy and security are vital aspects of DBMS user facilities to protect sensitive information from unauthorized access. Users trust the system to maintain the confidentiality and integrity of their data, and the DBMS must uphold these security measures.
71
What are the fundamental functions of a Database Management System (DBMS) regarding data?
The fundamental functions of a DBMS regarding data include: Data storage: Facilitating the storage of data in a structured manner. Data retrieval: Enabling users to query and retrieve data from the database. Data update: Supporting the modification and updating of stored data.
72
What is the purpose of a user-accessible catalog in a DBMS?
A user-accessible catalog in a DBMS serves as a repository of metadata, providing information about the database structure, schema, and relationships. It allows users to understand and interact with the database effectively.
73
What is meant by "transaction support" in the context of DBMS functions?
Transaction support in a DBMS ensures the integrity and consistency of data by providing mechanisms for grouping operations into atomic transactions. It ensures that either all operations within a transaction are executed, or none of them are.
74
How does a DBMS handle concurrency control?
Concurrency control in a DBMS manages multiple users accessing the database simultaneously, preventing conflicts and ensuring that transactions are executed in a controlled and consistent manner.
75
What are recovery services in the context of DBMS functions?
Recovery services in a DBMS are responsible for ensuring data integrity in the event of failures or errors. These services include mechanisms for recovering the database to a consistent state after a system crash or other unexpected issues.
76
How does a DBMS provide authorization services?
Authorization services in a DBMS control access to the database, specifying which users or roles have permission to perform specific operations. This helps in maintaining data security and preventing unauthorized access.
77
Why is support for communication software important in a DBMS?
Support for communication software in a DBMS allows for communication between different components of the system, facilitating interactions between users, applications, and the database server.
78
What is the role of integrity services in a DBMS?
Integrity services in a DBMS enforce data integrity constraints, ensuring that the data stored in the database adheres to predefined rules and relationships.
79
How does a DBMS promote data independence?
A DBMS promotes data independence by allowing changes to the database structure at one level (e.g., internal or conceptual) without affecting the other levels. This helps in adapting the system to evolving requirements without disrupting existing functionalities.
80
What are some examples of utility services provided by a DBMS?
Utility services in a DBMS include functionalities such as: Import/export: Moving data into or out of the database. Monitoring and logs: Tracking system activities and generating logs for analysis. Statistical analysis: Providing tools for analyzing database statistics. Consolidate files/indexes: Optimizing file and index organization. Reporting tools: Generating reports based on database content.
81
What is the role of Data Definition Language (DDL) in a Database Management System (DBMS)?
Data Definition Language (DDL) is used to specify the database format, defining the structure of the database, including tables, relationships, constraints, and other schema-related elements.
82
What activities are typically performed using Data Manipulation Language (DML) in a DBMS?
Data Manipulation Language (DML) is used to specify and retrieve database contents. It includes operations such as inserting, updating, deleting, and querying data in the database.
83
What is the primary purpose of Data Control Language (DCL) in a DBMS?
Data Control Language (DCL) is used to specify access controls, defining permissions and restrictions on who can access or manipulate specific data within the database.
84
How do these language categories contribute to the overall functionality of a DBMS?
These language categories contribute to the overall functionality of a DBMS by providing a comprehensive set of tools for database management: DDL allows for defining and modifying the database structure. DML enables manipulation and retrieval of data within the database. DCL controls and manages access to the database, ensuring security and permissions are properly enforced.
85
What is the role of the Data Dictionary/System Catalog in a DBMS?
The Data Dictionary/System Catalog stores information about database objects, providing metadata that describes the structure, organization, and properties of tables, views, indexes, and other elements within the database.
86
What is the function of the Query Processor in a DBMS?
The Query Processor interprets and optimizes user queries. It analyzes SQL queries, determines the most efficient way to retrieve the requested data, and generates an execution plan for processing by the database engine.
87
What is the purpose of the DML Preprocessor in a DBMS?
The DML Preprocessor converts Data Manipulation Language (DML) statements in application programs into standard function calls. It interacts with the query processor to generate code that can be executed against the database.
88
What role does the DDL Compiler/Data Dictionary Compiler play in a DBMS?
The DDL Compiler/Data Dictionary Compiler produces the Data Dictionary/System Catalog. It translates Data Definition Language (DDL) statements into executable code that creates or modifies database objects, such as tables, indexes, and constraints.
89
What is the responsibility of the Catalog Manager in a DBMS?
The Catalog Manager manages access to and maintains the system catalog (Data Dictionary). It controls the interactions with the catalog, ensuring that only authorized operations are performed and maintaining the integrity of the catalog data.
90
How do these components collectively contribute to the functionality of a DBMS?
These components work together to enable the core functionality of a DBMS: The Data Dictionary/System Catalog stores metadata, providing a comprehensive view of the database structure. The Query Processor optimizes and executes user queries efficiently. The DML Preprocessor facilitates interaction between application programs and the database engine. The DDL Compiler generates executable code for creating or modifying database objects. The Catalog Manager ensures secure and authorized access to the system catalog, maintaining data integrity.
91
What is the role of Authorization Control in a Database Management System (DBMS)?
Authorization Control confirms whether the user has the correct authorization to perform specific actions within the database, ensuring data security and access control.
92
How does the Command Processor contribute to the functionality of a DBMS?
The Command Processor handles commands once the system has confirmed authorization, executing actions requested by users or applications within the database.
93
What is the function of the Integrity Checker in a DBMS?
The Integrity Checker examines database changes to ensure they meet predefined integrity constraints, maintaining the consistency and accuracy of the data.
94
How does the Query Optimizer benefit a DBMS?
The Query Optimizer determines the optimal strategy for query execution, enhancing the efficiency and performance of SQL queries within the database.
95
What role does the Transaction Manager play in a multi-user environment within a DBMS?
The Transaction Manager communicates with the Recovery Manager and Scheduler to ensure data consistency in multi-user environments, coordinating and managing concurrent transactions.
96
How does the Scheduler contribute to concurrent operations in a DBMS?
The Scheduler ensures that concurrent operations do not conflict and orders them appropriately, managing the execution of tasks to maintain data consistency.
97
What is the responsibility of the Recovery Manager in a DBMS?
The Recovery Manager ensures the database stays in a consistent state after failures, overseeing the recovery process and restoring data integrity.
98
How does the Buffer Manager facilitate data transfer in a DBMS?
The Buffer Manager transfers data between main memory and secondary storage, optimizing data retrieval and storage processes for efficient database operations.
99
Why is concurrency control important for the Scheduler in a DBMS?
Concurrency control is crucial for the Scheduler to manage and coordinate concurrent operations, preventing conflicts and maintaining data integrity in a multi-user environment.
100
What is the significance of the Authorization Control component in ensuring data security?
Authorization Control is crucial for data security as it confirms whether users have the correct authorization, restricting access to sensitive data and preventing unauthorized actions within the database.
101

CS 250 (17 decks)

Brainscape helps you reach your goals faster, through stronger study habits.
© 2025 Bold Learning Solutions. Terms and Conditions