Database schema content A database schema (logical design) describes which of the following?

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: All of the above

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
The schema is the blueprint of a database. It specifies structures, constraints, and relationships at the logical level, independent of physical storage. Recognizing what the schema covers is essential for designing maintainable systems and communicating with developers and analysts.


Given Data / Assumptions:

  • We are speaking about the logical (conceptual) schema, not physical file layouts.
  • Data elements map to attributes/columns with types and constraints.
  • Records/files correspond to tables and groupings of data.
  • Relationships include keys and cardinalities.


Concept / Approach:
A schema defines the structure of data: entity types (tables), attributes (columns), domains (types), integrity constraints (primary/foreign keys, checks), and relationships (one-to-many, many-to-many via junctions). It does not prescribe specific physical sectors/blocks, which are internal storage details.


Step-by-Step Solution:

Associate “data elements” with column definitions and domains.Associate “records/files” with tuples and tables.Associate “relationships” with foreign keys and linking tables.All are within schema scope → choose “All of the above.”


Verification / Alternative check:
Database design texts describe schema diagrams (ERDs) capturing entities, attributes, and relationships, validating that all listed items fall under schema description.


Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Picking any single subset omits critical parts of schema definition, which is comprehensive by nature.


Common Pitfalls:
Confusing schema with physical storage (files, partitions); while related, schema is platform-neutral and focuses on logical structure.


Final Answer:
All of the above

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