9.1

Database concepts

9 flashcards to master Database concepts

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Definition Flip

Explain the purpose of a 'primary key' and provide an example.

Answer Flip

A 'primary key' is a unique identifier for each record in a table, ensuring no two records are identical.

Example: Student ID in a student table, or product code in a product table.
Definition Flip

Describe the function of a 'foreign key' and how it relates to tables in a relational database.

Answer Flip

A 'foreign key' is a field in one table that refers to the primary key of another table. It establishes a link between the two tables, enforcing referential integrity and enabling relationships.

Key Concept Flip

Explain the concept of a 'relationship' in a relational database.

Answer Flip

A 'relationship' defines how data is linked between two or more tables using primary and foreign keys. This ensures data consistency and allows for efficient data retrieval across multiple tables.

Key Concept Flip

Outline the differences between 'one-to-one', 'one-to-many', and 'many-to-many' relationships with suitable examples.

Answer Flip

One-to-one: One person has one passport. One-to-many: One author can write many books. Many-to-many: Many students can enroll in many courses (requires a junction table).

Definition Flip

What is a 'flat file' database and what are its limitations compared to a relational database?

Answer Flip

A 'flat file' database stores data in a single table, without relationships. Limitations include data redundancy, inconsistency, and difficulty in querying complex relationships compared to relational databases.

Key Concept Flip

Explain the key advantage of using a 'relational database' over a 'flat file' database for managing complex data.

Answer Flip

Relational databases minimize data redundancy and ensure data consistency by storing related data in separate tables linked through relationships, allowing for efficient querying and data manipulation of complex data sets.

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8.3 Procedures and functions 9.2 SQL

Key Questions: Database concepts

Explain the purpose of a 'primary key' and provide an example.

A 'primary key' is a unique identifier for each record in a table, ensuring no two records are identical.

Example: Student ID in a student table, or product code in a product table.
Describe the function of a 'foreign key' and how it relates to tables in a relational database.

A 'foreign key' is a field in one table that refers to the primary key of another table. It establishes a link between the two tables, enforcing referential integrity and enabling relationships.

What is a 'flat file' database and what are its limitations compared to a relational database?

A 'flat file' database stores data in a single table, without relationships. Limitations include data redundancy, inconsistency, and difficulty in querying complex relationships compared to relational databases.

About Database concepts (9.1)

These 9 flashcards cover everything you need to know about Database concepts for your Cambridge IGCSE Computer Science (0478) exam. Each card is designed based on the official syllabus requirements.

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