What is the purpose of using joins in DB2?
- To combine rows from two or more tables based on a related column between them
- To delete duplicate rows in a table
- To sort the data in a table
- To update the data in a table
Joins in DB2 are used to combine rows from two or more tables based on a related column between them. This allows for retrieving related data from different tables.
What is the difference between range partitioning and hash partitioning in DB2?
- Data is distributed based on a specified range of values
- Data is distributed based on hash values of specified columns
- Data is evenly distributed across partitions
- Data is randomly distributed across partitions
Range partitioning in DB2 involves distributing data based on a specified range of values for a particular column. Hash partitioning, on the other hand, distributes data based on hash values of specified columns, ensuring even distribution across partitions. Range partitioning is typically used when data can be logically grouped into ranges, while hash partitioning is suitable for distributing data uniformly across partitions.
Discuss the benefits of achieving Boyce-Codd Normal Form (BCNF) in database design.
- Enhancing query performance
- Improving data integrity
- Reducing data redundancy and anomalies
- Simplifying data retrieval
Achieving BCNF helps in minimizing data redundancy and anomalies, thus improving data integrity. It ensures that every determinant is a candidate key, enhancing data integrity. BCNF may simplify data retrieval but does not directly impact query performance.
Which DB2 feature allows for querying and manipulating XML or JSON data directly?
- DB2 XML Toolkit
- JSON_TABLE function
- SQL/XML
- XMLTABLE function
The JSON_TABLE function in DB2 allows for querying and manipulating JSON data directly. It provides a way to extract data from JSON documents and transform it into relational format, facilitating seamless integration of JSON data with traditional SQL queries.
The Runstats utility collects statistics about ________ in DB2.
- Database objects
- Indexes
- Stored procedures
- Tables
The Runstats utility in DB2 collects statistics about various database objects such as tables, indexes, columns, and partitions. These statistics help the query optimizer to make informed decisions about the most efficient way to access data, leading to improved query performance.
The DOUBLE data type in DB2 is used for storing ________.
- Double-precision data
- Large character data
- Binary data
- Numeric data
The correct option is Option 1: Double-precision data. DOUBLE in DB2 represents a double-precision floating-point number, which is suitable for storing large numeric values with decimal points with high precision.
What are the common techniques used to denormalize a database schema?
- Aggregating Tables
- Data Duplication
- Horizontal Partitioning
- Vertical Partitioning
Denormalization involves introducing redundancy into a table or database to improve query performance or simplify data management. Common techniques include data duplication, where selected data is stored in multiple tables for easier retrieval, and aggregating tables, where data from multiple tables is combined into a single table for faster queries.
Scenario: An application requires frequent querying of aggregated data from multiple tables. How can materialized views be beneficial in this scenario within a DB2 environment?
- Materialized views can automatically index columns for faster query performance.
- Materialized views can automatically update themselves based on underlying table changes.
- Materialized views can enforce referential integrity constraints across multiple tables.
- Materialized views can store precomputed aggregated data, reducing query processing time.
Materialized views in DB2 can significantly enhance query performance in scenarios requiring frequent querying of aggregated data from multiple tables. By storing precomputed results, materialized views eliminate the need for repeated computation of aggregates, thereby reducing query processing time. This approach also minimizes resource utilization and enhances overall system efficiency. Materialized views can be periodically refreshed to ensure that the data remains up-to-date, providing users with accurate insights without the overhead of recalculating aggregates on the fly.
What does troubleshooting involve in the context of DB2?
- Creating new databases
- Generating reports
- Identifying and resolving issues
- Installing software updates
Troubleshooting in DB2 involves identifying and resolving issues that affect database performance or functionality. This process includes diagnosing problems, analyzing logs, and applying appropriate fixes or configurations to address the root cause of the issue.
Transaction logs in DB2 are crucial for ________.
- Data compression
- Database recovery
- Query optimization
- Schema modification
Transaction logs in DB2 are crucial for database recovery. These logs record all changes made to the database, including inserts, updates, and deletes, in a sequential manner. In the event of a failure or a need to recover the database to a specific point in time, transaction logs play a vital role by providing a consistent record of transactions. They enable the database to be restored to a consistent state, ensuring data integrity and minimizing the risk of data loss.
The NOT NULL constraint in DB2 ensures that a column ________.
- Must contain NULL values
- Must contain empty values
- Must contain non-NULL values
- Must contain unique values
The NOT NULL constraint in DB2 ensures that a column must contain non-NULL values, meaning every row in the column must have a value assigned to it and cannot be left empty. This constraint guarantees the presence of data in the specified column, thereby preventing the insertion of NULL values, which can lead to data inconsistency or errors in queries and calculations. It ensures data integrity and helps enforce business rules regarding mandatory data entry.
What distinguishes different editions of DB2?
- Functionality
- Pricing
- Supported platforms
- User interface
Different editions of DB2 are distinguished primarily by their functionality. Each edition offers a different set of features and capabilities catering to specific needs and requirements of users. For example, the Express-C edition is designed for small and medium-sized businesses, while the Enterprise edition provides advanced features for large enterprises. Understanding the distinctions between editions helps database administrators select the appropriate version for their organization's needs.