Which column property in a relational table specifies whether cells must contain a value (that is, whether blanks are allowed)?
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ANull status
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BData type
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CDefault value
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DData constraints
Answer
Correct Answer: Null status
Explanation
Introduction / Context:Every column definition includes properties that control the kind of data permitted and whether data is required. Knowing where “must have a value” is configured is fundamental to schema design.
Given Data / Assumptions:
- The question asks which property enforces “value required.”
- We are not selecting the data type or a default value.
Concept / Approach:Nullability (null status) controls whether NULLs are permitted. Declaring a column NOT NULL ensures every row must supply a value. This is different from data type (which sets format/precision) and default value (which supplies a value if one is omitted).
Step-by-Step Solution:
Identify requirement: mandatory presence of data.Map to NOT NULL / NULL property.Choose “Null status”.Verification / Alternative check:DDL examples: column_name data_type NOT NULL; enforced by the DBMS on INSERT/UPDATE.
Why Other Options Are Wrong:Data type: Defines form, not presence. Default value: Supplies a value, but does not itself forbid NULL unless combined with NOT NULL. Data constraints: A broader category; nullability is specifically the null status.
Common Pitfalls:Assuming a default value implies NOT NULL; it does not. You can still insert NULL unless NOT NULL is specified.
Final Answer:Null status