Chapter 1 Flashcards
Which of the following best describes data?
Raw facts stored in a database
Which database type supports multiple users simultaneously?
Multiuser database
What is the role of a DBMS?
Serve as the intermediary between users and the database
What is data redundancy?
Storing the same data unnecessarily in different places
Which of the following is NOT an advantage of a DBMS?
Increased data inconsistency
What is the key difference between logical and physical data formats?
Logical format reflects human understanding, physical format reflects computer storage
Which of the following is NOT a type of database based on its location?
Operational database
What is the primary function of metadata?
Describe data characteristics and relationships
Which type of data exists in its original state?
Unstructured data
What problem does structural dependence in file systems cause?
The need to rewrite programs for file structure changes
Define the difference between data and information.
Data are raw facts, while information is the result of processing data to reveal meaning.
Explain the concept of a database and its primary components.
A database is a shared, integrated computer structure storing a collection of end-user data and metadata.
What are the primary advantages of using a DBMS over a traditional file system?
Advantages include improved data sharing, better data security, minimized data inconsistency, improved access, and enhanced decision-making.
Describe the role of metadata in a database system.
Metadata provides descriptions of data characteristics and relationships, complementing and expanding the value of data.
List the five major parts of a database system environment.
- Hardware
- Software
- People
- Procedures
- Data
How do operational databases differ from data warehouses?
Operational databases support daily operations, while data warehouses store data for tactical or strategic decision-making.
What is the significance of data integrity in a DBMS?
Data integrity ensures consistency and accuracy, minimizes redundancy, and is critical for transaction-oriented systems.
Explain the concept of data independence and why it is important.
Data independence allows changes to data storage without affecting data access, promoting flexibility in database management.
What are the potential disadvantages of database systems?
Increased costs, management complexity, vendor dependence, and frequent upgrade/replacement cycles.
Discuss how file system limitations influenced the evolution of modern databases.
Issues like data redundancy, structural dependence, lack of ad hoc querying, and security shortcomings drove the development of more robust database solutions.
Data and information are interchangeable terms.
False
Metadata describes the characteristics and relationships of data.
True
A DBMS eliminates data redundancy entirely.
False
Centralized databases rely on multiple nodes for independent data control.
False
