Question 1

Oracle SQLPlus editor behavior: assess the statement below.  "Oracle will let you set Notepad as the default editor, and whenever you type NOTEPAD, SQLPlus will invoke Notepad."

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This item checks practical knowledge of SQLPlus editor integration on Windows. SQLPlus allows you to configure a default external editor (for example, Notepad) and then invoke it from within the client. However, invoking that editor does not work by simply typing the program’s name as if it were a SQLPlus command; you must use specific SQLPlus commands to launch the editor or an operating system shell command. Given Data / Assumptions: You are using SQLPlus on Windows. The default editor can be set (for example, DEFINE _EDITOR = notepad). You want to open the editor from SQLPlus. Concept / Approach: SQLPlus provides the EDIT command to open the currently buffered statement in the configured external editor. To run arbitrary operating system programs from SQLPlus, use HOST (or a leading exclamation mark in some environments). Typing NOTEPAD alone is not a SQLPlus command and will be treated as invalid SQL unless prefixed with HOST. Therefore, the blanket statement that “whenever you type NOTEPAD, SQLPlus will invoke Notepad” is incorrect. Step-by-Step Solution: Set editor: DEFINE _EDITOR = notepadOpen current buffer in editor: EDITRun Notepad directly: HOST notepadTyping NOTEPAD alone does not execute in SQLPlus; it is not a recognized SQLPlus command. Verification / Alternative check: Try EDIT after DEFINE _EDITOR is set; Notepad opens with the SQL buffer. Try HOST notepad; a Notepad window opens. Typing NOTEPAD without HOST raises an error or is interpreted as SQL text. Why Other Options Are Wrong: “Valid (typing NOTEPAD…)”: incorrect because SQLPlus needs EDIT or HOST. Linux/character set/SYSDBA conditions are irrelevant to editor invocation. Common Pitfalls: Confusing EDIT (opens buffer) with HOST (runs OS command); assuming program names are SQLPlus commands. Final Answer: Invalid (use EDIT or HOST to open the configured editor)

Question 2

SQLPlus execution shortcut: does a forward slash (/) execute the current buffer?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Knowing how SQLPlus executes statements is essential for productivity. One commonly used control is the forward slash (/) typed on a line by itself, which instructs SQLPlus to execute whatever is currently stored in the statement buffer. Given Data / Assumptions: You are using the classic SQLPlus client. A statement or PL/SQL block has been entered and resides in the buffer. You type a slash on a new line. Concept / Approach: SQLPlus maintains a buffer of the most recently entered statement or PL/SQL block. A semicolon terminates a SQL statement during entry. The slash on a new line commands SQLPlus to execute the contents of that buffer. This is also how you dispatch a PL/SQL block after its final semicolon. Thus, the description that the “left-leaning slash” executes the buffered statement is correct. Step-by-Step Solution: Type a SQL statement and end with a semicolon to place it in the buffer.On a new line, type / and press Enter.SQLPlus executes the buffered text and returns results or messages.For PL/SQL blocks, place a semicolon at the end of the END; line, then type / on a fresh line to execute. Verification / Alternative check: Enter SELECT 1 FROM dual; then type / — the query re-runs without retyping it. Editing the buffer with EDIT and then / re-executes the edited content. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Slash is not a comment marker and does not depend on NLS or IDE. It works for both SQL and PL/SQL buffers. Common Pitfalls: Forgetting that / executes the last buffer even if you have typed unrelated lines since; accidentally re-running an old statement. Final Answer: Valid (slash executes the SQL/PLSQL in the buffer)

Question 3

Oracle System Change Number (SCN): evaluate the definition and behavior.

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Oracle’s System Change Number (SCN) is a cornerstone of read consistency, recovery, flashback, and replication features. Understanding that the SCN represents a monotonically increasing, database-wide logical time helps explain how Oracle ensures consistent views and coordinates recovery. Given Data / Assumptions: SCN is a single logical counter for the entire database. It advances as the database processes changes (notably at commits and checkpoints). Utilities like RMAN and Data Guard rely on SCN boundaries. Concept / Approach: Each committed transaction advances the SCN; Oracle tags blocks and undo with SCNs to reconstruct consistent snapshots for queries. During recovery, Oracle rolls forward or back to target SCNs. Thus, the description that the SCN is “database-wide and incremented whenever changes are made” captures the essential behavior (details vary internally, but this abstraction is correct). Step-by-Step Solution: Issue a DML and COMMIT; the database SCN advances.Queries can request data “as of” an SCN using flashback features.Recovery operations choose an SCN target to restore consistency.Data Guard synchronizes using SCN progression to maintain standby alignment. Verification / Alternative check: Querying CURRENT_SCN before and after a COMMIT shows growth. RMAN backups record checkpoint SCNs for recoverability. Why Other Options Are Wrong: SCN is not per-session and is unrelated to ROWID or block size alone. It applies to primary and standby databases alike. Common Pitfalls: Assuming SCN equals physical time; confusing SCN with object identifiers. Final Answer: Valid (SCN is a database-wide logical timestamp advanced by changes/commits)

Question 4

Oracle data types: is there a built-in Currency/Money type?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Oracle supports numeric storage via the versatile NUMBER type. Monetary values are commonly stored as NUMBER with appropriate scale and formatting at the presentation layer. This question addresses a common misconception that there is a special Currency or Money data type in Oracle. Given Data / Assumptions: Application must store monetary amounts in Oracle Database. NLS settings may control symbols and formats for display. Data integrity and precision are important. Concept / Approach: Store currency amounts in NUMBER(p,s) (for example, NUMBER(19,4)) to allow needed precision. Present the value with a currency symbol using TO_CHAR with a format model (for example, L999G999D99) or in the application layer. There is no built-in MONEY/CURRENCY data type; therefore, the statement that “Money is defined with the Currency data type” is incorrect. Step-by-Step Solution: Create column: amount NUMBER(19,4)Insert precise decimal values; avoid floating types for money.Format at query time: TO_CHAR(amount, 'L999G999D99')Store currency code (for example, ISO 4217) separately if multi-currency is required. Verification / Alternative check: Querying USER_TAB_COLUMNS shows NUMBER as the underlying type. Display of currency symbols depends on NLS and format models, not on a special data type. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Claiming a Currency type is false; XE and NLS do not add such a native type. Storing money as CHAR is poor practice and loses numeric semantics. Common Pitfalls: Using FLOAT/DOUBLE (binary floating) for money; mixing currency symbol in stored values; ignoring rounding rules. Final Answer: Invalid (Oracle has no Currency or Money data type; use NUMBER with formats)

Question 5

Are Oracle identifiers and commands case sensitive by default?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Understanding case sensitivity rules helps avoid naming surprises. In Oracle, unquoted identifiers are folded to uppercase internally, and SQL keywords are case-insensitive. Case matters for string literals and for identifiers that are created with double quotes, which preserve case exactly. Given Data / Assumptions: Typical DDL uses unquoted identifiers (CREATE TABLE emp…). Quoted identifiers ("EmpName") are sometimes used but discouraged. SQL keywords (SELECT, FROM) are not case sensitive. Concept / Approach: If you create a table as CREATE TABLE emp (ename VARCHAR2(10)), the data dictionary stores EMP and ENAME. You can reference them as emp, EMP, or EmP. If you instead create "Emp" with double quotes, you must always reference it exactly as "Emp". Thus, the statement that “all Oracle names and commands are case sensitive” is incorrect in the default, recommended style. Step-by-Step Solution: Create an unquoted object, then query it using different letter cases — all work.Create a quoted object "Emp"; attempts to use EMP without quotes fail.Recognize that string literal comparisons are case-sensitive unless functions or collations change behavior.SQL*Plus command names are also case-insensitive. Verification / Alternative check: DESCRIBE Emp and DESCRIBE EMP succeed for an unquoted object; only DESCRIBE "Emp" works for a quoted one. Why Other Options Are Wrong: NLS_SORT affects string comparison, not identifier case folding. Tablespace defaults are irrelevant; the rule applies equally to tables and columns. Common Pitfalls: Using quoted identifiers and later forgetting exact case; mixing cases in client code; assuming case-insensitive string comparisons. Final Answer: Invalid (unquoted identifiers and commands are case-insensitive by default)

Question 6

SQLPlus script execution: does START filename run the file automatically?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: SQLPlus provides several ways to run external SQL scripts. The START command (and its shorthand @) reads and executes a script file. This question verifies that you know START actually runs the file, rather than merely loading it into the buffer. Given Data / Assumptions: You have a .sql file on disk. SQLPlus has access to that path (current directory or full path given). The script contains valid SQL and/or PL/SQL commands. Concept / Approach: Typing START myscript.sql or @myscript.sql causes SQLPlus to read commands from the file and execute them in order, echoing results as they run. No extra slash is required unless a PL/SQL block in the file ends with END; and relies on slash execution semantics (most scripts include the ending slash themselves). Step-by-Step Solution: Place SQL statements in myscript.sql.In SQL*Plus, run START myscript.sql or @myscript.sql.Observe statements executing sequentially with output/errors displayed.Use @@ for nested script calls relative to the current script directory. Verification / Alternative check: Compare behavior to EDIT; EDIT opens the buffer in an editor, while START executes immediately. START and @ behave equivalently. Why Other Options Are Wrong: START does not merely load; it executes. File name case, extensions, and SYSDBA are not requirements (path/access matters). Common Pitfalls: Using relative paths incorrectly; forgetting the trailing slash for PL/SQL blocks inside the file; lacking privileges for statements inside the script. Final Answer: Valid (START executes the specified script file, like @)

Question 7

Semicolon vs. slash in SQLPlus: are they equivalent when there is a single statement and no ambiguity?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: In SQLPlus, a semicolon ends a SQL statement during entry and immediately executes it. A forward slash on a new line executes the current buffer. When there is only one statement in play and no ambiguity, both actions result in the same execution of that statement, hence they appear equivalent from the user’s point of view. Given Data / Assumptions: There is a single SQL statement in the buffer. No prior statement lingers that could be unintentionally re-executed. We are not dealing with multi-line PL/SQL blocks requiring post-terminator execution. Concept / Approach: Typing a semicolon concludes and runs the statement immediately. Alternatively, pressing Enter to finish the statement and then typing / will execute the same buffered text. While PL/SQL often requires the slash after END;, for a simple single SQL statement both methods execute the same content, producing identical results when no other text is buffered. Step-by-Step Solution: Enter SELECT * FROM dual;This runs immediately due to ;If instead you enter the statement without ; and then type /, SQL*Plus executes the buffered text.With only this one statement present, outcomes are equivalent. Verification / Alternative check: Run with ; and then with / and compare results—they match for single, unambiguous statements. For PL/SQL, ; terminates internal statements; / dispatches the whole block. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Semicolon is not a comment; both ; and / relate to execution, not NLS or date formats. They are not restricted to particular SQL categories. Common Pitfalls: Accidentally re-running an old buffer with /; misunderstanding that PL/SQL blocks need / to execute after END;. Final Answer: Valid (with a single statement, ; and / both execute it effectively)

Question 8

When does case matter in Oracle SQL? Assess the claim: "Only inside string literals."

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Oracle SQL treats unquoted identifiers and keywords case-insensitively, but case sensitivity is still significant in several areas. The statement that it matters “only inside strings” is incomplete and therefore incorrect. Given Data / Assumptions: String literals in single quotes preserve case and compare case-sensitively unless functions or case-insensitive collations are used. Quoted identifiers in double quotes preserve case and must be referenced exactly. Some NLS collation settings impact case sensitivity of comparisons. Concept / Approach: Unquoted identifiers are folded to uppercase and are case-insensitive. However, "MyTable" is distinct from MYTABLE and must be referenced precisely if created with quotes. Furthermore, case can influence string comparison outcomes depending on collation settings (for example, BINARY vs. case-insensitive collations). Hence, the claim that only strings care about case omits the quoted identifier scenario and collation effects. Step-by-Step Solution: Create "Emp" using quotes; referencing EMP fails unless quoted exactly.Insert 'Abc' and compare with 'abc'; results differ under case-sensitive comparison.Switch to a case-insensitive collation and observe different comparison outcomes.Recognize that unquoted identifiers and keywords are case-insensitive. Verification / Alternative check: DESCRIBE "Emp" vs. DESCRIBE EMP shows the necessity of exact case when quotes were used. String comparison functions (e.g., UPPER) normalize case explicitly. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Claiming “valid” ignores quoted identifiers and collation behavior. Optimizer mode or character set alone does not dictate identifier case rules. Common Pitfalls: Creating quoted identifiers unintentionally; mixing case in client code; assuming all databases behave the same regarding case. Final Answer: Invalid (case also matters for quoted identifiers and some collations)

Question 9

Purpose of indexes in Oracle: uniqueness enforcement and performance.

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Indexes are auxiliary structures that improve query performance and, in the case of unique indexes or constraints, enforce uniqueness on key columns. Understanding this dual role clarifies why and when to create indexes in Oracle. Given Data / Assumptions: Oracle supports B-tree, bitmap, and other index types. Unique constraints are enforced via unique indexes. Index selection affects performance characteristics. Concept / Approach: An index maps key values to row locations, allowing Oracle to locate rows efficiently without scanning entire tables. A UNIQUE index (often created automatically by a UNIQUE or PRIMARY KEY constraint) ensures that duplicate key values cannot be inserted. Non-unique indexes accelerate predicates, joins, and orderings but do not enforce uniqueness. Therefore, the statement that indexes both enforce uniqueness and enable fast retrieval is correct. Step-by-Step Solution: Create a UNIQUE constraint on a column; Oracle creates a unique index under the covers.Create a non-unique index to speed WHERE clauses, joins, and ORDER BY.Measure plans with EXPLAIN PLAN to confirm index usage.Avoid over-indexing writes; balance read and write needs. Verification / Alternative check: Attempt to insert duplicate keys under a UNIQUE constraint—Oracle raises an error, proving uniqueness enforcement through indexing. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Indexes do not replace tables nor depend solely on block size or foreign keys. Both B-tree and bitmap indexes can contribute to performance; bitmap indexes are specialized for low-cardinality, read-mostly workloads. Common Pitfalls: Creating too many indexes; forgetting to index selective foreign keys for join performance; assuming every query benefits from an index. Final Answer: Valid (indexes can enforce uniqueness and speed lookups by column values)

Question 10

Does Oracle support ON UPDATE CASCADE in foreign keys?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Different relational databases offer different referential actions. Oracle historically supports ON DELETE CASCADE but does not implement ON UPDATE CASCADE in declarative foreign keys. Knowing this prevents designing schemas that rely on unsupported automatic key updates. Given Data / Assumptions: We are defining a foreign key in Oracle. We want to understand available referential actions. Application may need to change parent key values (not recommended practice). Concept / Approach: Oracle encourages stable primary keys. When parent key values must change, you typically perform controlled updates using application logic or surrogate keys, or you recreate related rows. Declaratively, Oracle allows ON DELETE CASCADE and ON DELETE SET NULL/DEFAULT (as applicable), but not ON UPDATE CASCADE. Therefore, the statement that Oracle does not support CASCADE UPDATE is correct. Step-by-Step Solution: Attempt to define a foreign key with ON UPDATE CASCADE — Oracle raises a syntax error.Define supported actions, such as ON DELETE CASCADE, successfully.If updates to keys are needed, implement them via code or redesign to avoid updating keys.Prefer surrogate immutable keys to avoid the need for key updates. Verification / Alternative check: Consult Oracle reference for CREATE TABLE … FOREIGN KEY constraints; ON UPDATE options are absent. Testing in SQL*Plus confirms unsupported syntax. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Edition, deferrability, or MERGE does not introduce ON UPDATE CASCADE support. Common Pitfalls: Porting schemas from MySQL or PostgreSQL that rely on ON UPDATE CASCADE; forgetting to protect parent key stability. Final Answer: Valid (Oracle does not support ON UPDATE CASCADE; only ON DELETE CASCADE is available)

Question 11

Oracle SQL basics: Can you use the DROP statement to remove database structures such as tables, views, indexes, or sequences? Decide whether the statement is accurate.

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Data Definition Language (DDL) commands control the structure of database objects. In Oracle SQL, the DROP statement is a DDL operation used to remove objects such as tables, views, indexes, sequences, synonyms, and more. This question checks your fundamental understanding of DROP and when it applies. Given Data / Assumptions: The context is Oracle Database and standard SQL DDL behavior. “Structures” refers to schema objects like TABLE, VIEW, INDEX, SEQUENCE, SYNONYM, TYPE, TRIGGER, and similar items. DROP permanently removes metadata and, for data-bearing objects (for example, tables), the stored data as well. Concept / Approach: DROP object_type object_name is used to remove the named object from the data dictionary. Because DROP is DDL, it commits implicitly before and after execution. Some objects have dependencies; Oracle will prevent the drop if it violates dependency rules (unless you use CASCADE where applicable, for example DROP VIEW or DROP TYPE with CASCADE). Recycling can be enabled with the Recycle Bin feature (DROP TABLE places the table into the bin), but conceptually the statement still removes the original structure. Step-by-Step Solution: Identify the target object (for example, a table T).Issue the command: DROP TABLE T;Oracle checks dependencies (foreign keys, constraints, etc.).If permitted, Oracle removes the structure and its data; an implicit commit finalizes the change. Verification / Alternative check: Query the data dictionary views (for example, USER_TABLES, USER_VIEWS, USER_INDEXES) before and after the DROP to confirm the object no longer exists. If the Recycle Bin is on, USER_RECYCLEBIN will show dropped tables until purged. Why Other Options Are Wrong: “Only in PL/SQL blocks” is wrong; DROP is a SQL DDL statement and can be run in SQL*Plus, SQLcl, SQL Developer, and so on. “Only for empty tables” and “Only if the table has no primary key” are incorrect; keys and data volume do not prevent a DROP (dependencies might). Common Pitfalls: Forgetting that DROP is irreversible without backups or Recycle Bin; ignoring dependencies; assuming DROP just clears rows (that is TRUNCATE). DROP removes the object definition itself. Final Answer: Correct

Question 12

Oracle tooling knowledge check: “SQLPlus is a text editor.” Decide whether this description of SQLPlus is valid or not.

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: SQLPlus is a long-standing Oracle command-line interface used for executing SQL and PL/SQL. Many beginners confuse its command buffer and built-in commands with a full-featured editor. This item tests whether you can distinguish between a database client (SQLPlus) and a true text editor or IDE. Given Data / Assumptions: You are using Oracle SQLPlus in a terminal or console. SQLPlus accepts SQL and PL/SQL statements and scripts, supports substitution variables, formatting commands (COLUMN, SET), and spooling output. SQLPlus includes a rudimentary line buffer, but no full editing features such as multi-file project management, syntax-aware refactoring, or code navigation typical of editors. Concept / Approach: A text editor (for example, Notepad++, vi, Visual Studio Code) is designed to create and modify files with rich editing capabilities. SQLPlus is a client program that connects to the Oracle database, sends SQL/PLSQL to the server, and displays results. While it can invoke an external editor (for example, EDIT in SQLPlus opens the current buffer in your configured editor), SQLPlus itself is not the editor. It is primarily a scripting and execution environment. Step-by-Step Solution: Start SQLPlus and connect to a database.Type SQL statements; they reside temporarily in the SQL buffer.Use / or ; to execute, or SAVE/START to persist/run scripts.Invoke EDIT to open an external editor if needed; SQLPlus delegates editing to that tool. Verification / Alternative check: Compare features: SQLPlus lacks editor capabilities such as multiple cursors, plugins, and language servers. It focuses on execution, formatting, spooling, and scripting. Why Other Options Are Wrong: “Correct” mislabels the tool’s purpose. Platform, file type, or NLS settings do not convert SQLPlus into an editor; they only affect environment and display. Common Pitfalls: Trying to “edit” code solely in SQL*Plus without version control; not using an external editor or IDE for development; confusing the SQL buffer with an editable file. Final Answer: Incorrect

Question 13

SQLPlus input behavior: “When you type a statement and press Enter, SQLPlus finishes and executes it immediately.” Evaluate the accuracy of this claim.

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Understanding how SQLPlus terminates and executes statements is essential for accurate script execution. Unlike some shells where Enter triggers immediate action, SQLPlus requires a statement terminator or a specific execution command. This question asks whether pressing Enter alone executes the SQL. Given Data / Assumptions: You are interacting with SQLPlus directly (not SQL Developer or another client). Standard terminators are used: semicolon (;) at the end of SQL statements, or a slash (/) on a line by itself to submit the current buffer (often used after PL/SQL blocks). The SQL buffer holds the current statement until it is executed or replaced. Concept / Approach: Pressing Enter simply starts a new line and does not execute the SQL in SQLPlus. Execution occurs when SQLPlus receives a recognized terminator. For typical SQL (SELECT, DDL, DML), a semicolon ends and submits the statement. For PL/SQL blocks (DECLARE…BEGIN…END;), the block ends with a semicolon and is executed when you enter a slash on a separate line. The slash instructs SQLPlus to send the current buffer to the database. Step-by-Step Solution: Type: SELECT 1 FROM dualPress Enter → nothing executes; SQLPlus awaits a terminator.Type: ; and press Enter → now SQLPlus submits and shows results.For PL/SQL, end the block with ; inside the block, then / on the next line to run. Verification / Alternative check: Observe the SQL buffer behavior using LIST; you will see the text remains until you terminate and execute. Why Other Options Are Wrong: “Correct” misstates SQLPlus behavior. AUTOCOMMIT affects transaction commits, not execution triggers. A lone slash on the same line is not a standard SQL terminator; it must be on a new line for PL/SQL. Common Pitfalls: Forgetting the slash after PL/SQL; assuming Enter executes; mixing SQLPlus with GUI client behaviors. Final Answer: Incorrect

Question 14

Oracle design feature check: “Oracle directly supports the definition of surrogate keys.” Decide whether this statement is accurate, considering identity columns and sequences.

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Surrogate keys are system-generated identifiers (for example, numeric IDs) that uniquely identify rows without business meaning. Oracle provides mechanisms to generate such values, but this question asks whether Oracle “directly supports the definition of surrogate keys” as a special modeling construct. Given Data / Assumptions: Oracle offers sequences in all modern releases and identity columns beginning with Oracle 12c. Primary keys are defined with constraints; “surrogate” is a modeling term, not an Oracle keyword. Surrogate key behavior involves immutability and uniqueness enforced by PRIMARY KEY or UNIQUE constraints. Concept / Approach: Oracle does not have a special “SURROGATE KEY” keyword or constraint type. Instead, you implement surrogate keys using standard features: define a PRIMARY KEY column and generate its values using a sequence (optionally with a trigger) or by declaring the column as GENERATED {ALWAYS|BY DEFAULT} AS IDENTITY (12c+). These are general-purpose generators; they are not a distinct “surrogate key” construct. Therefore, the statement that Oracle “directly supports the definition of surrogate keys” (as a unique, named, built-in concept) is not accurate; Oracle supports generation, not a special key type. Step-by-Step Solution: Create table T(id number primary key, ...).Option A: CREATE SEQUENCE t_seq; insert using t_seq.nextval.Option B (12c+): id NUMBER GENERATED ALWAYS AS IDENTITY.Enforce uniqueness via the PRIMARY KEY constraint. Verification / Alternative check: Oracle documentation lists identity columns and sequences, not a “surrogate key” feature. The modeling term remains conceptual. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Calling it “Correct” confuses value generation with a dedicated surrogate-key construct. GUID types and CDB/non-CDB architecture are unrelated to the concept. “Only via triggers” is incomplete; 12c identity removes the trigger requirement. Common Pitfalls: Equating sequences with primary keys; omitting constraints that guarantee uniqueness; assuming “surrogate” is a SQL keyword. Final Answer: Incorrect

Question 15

Oracle sequences and key validity: “Sequences guarantee valid surrogate key values.” Evaluate whether this statement is correct in real Oracle deployments.

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Oracle sequences generate numeric values, often used to populate surrogate key columns. However, correctness for keys includes uniqueness and referential integrity. This question examines whether using a sequence alone “guarantees valid surrogate key values.” Given Data / Assumptions: A surrogate key must be unique and present (not NULL) for each row. Oracle sequences can generate values that are monotonically increasing but may have gaps (for example, due to rollbacks, caching, instance restarts). Uniqueness is enforced by constraints, not by the sequence itself. Concept / Approach: A sequence is just a number generator. It does not check table contents and cannot prevent duplicates if two different sequences or manual inserts generate conflicting values. The validity of a surrogate key is guaranteed by defining a PRIMARY KEY or UNIQUE constraint on the column that receives sequence values. Identity columns (12c+) pair generation with a constraint-friendly design, but uniqueness still comes from constraints. Therefore, the presence of a sequence alone does not guarantee “valid” keys; it merely supplies candidate values. Step-by-Step Solution: Define a table T(id number primary key).Create a sequence S and insert using S.nextval → values are generated.Without the primary key constraint, duplicate insertion from other sources could succeed.With the primary key constraint, duplicates are prevented; integrity is guaranteed by the constraint, not the sequence. Verification / Alternative check: Attempt to insert a manual duplicate value; the constraint blocks it. Restart the instance—observe sequence gaps but no impact on uniqueness enforcement. Why Other Options Are Wrong: NOCACHE or identity flavors do not change the fundamental separation of generation from enforcement. Deferrable constraints change timing of checks, not the guarantee mechanism. Common Pitfalls: Assuming sequences enforce uniqueness; not declaring constraints; relying on sequence order for business meaning. Final Answer: Incorrect

Question 16

Oracle product overview: “Oracle, the world’s most popular DBMS, is powerful and robust, running on many operating systems.” Decide if this statement is accurate.

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Oracle Database has been a flagship relational database for decades. The statement claims popularity, robustness, and cross-platform availability. This item checks broad product knowledge rather than a narrow syntax point. Given Data / Assumptions: Oracle Database supports multiple platforms (for example, Linux, various UNIX derivatives, and Windows for many releases; specific platform lists vary by version). Oracle is widely deployed across industries for OLTP, data warehousing, and mixed workloads. “Powerful and robust” refers to features like advanced concurrency control, partitioning, RAC, Data Guard, and sophisticated security. Concept / Approach: Evaluating the statement involves considering market penetration, longevity, and technical capabilities. Oracle has a long history of enterprise adoption, strong performance characteristics, and sustained support lifecycle policies. It offers rich SQL and PL/SQL capabilities, a robust optimizer, and tooling/ecosystem (for example, RMAN, OEM). Although “most popular” is a qualitative claim and can vary by metric, it is fair in many enterprise contexts to regard Oracle as among the most widely used commercial DBMS products. Its cross-platform footprint has historically included major operating systems, underscoring the “runs on many OSs” portion. Step-by-Step Solution: Assess popularity: consider enterprise adoption and long-term presence.Assess robustness: features for availability, performance, and security.Assess platform coverage: confirm multi-OS support by release notes.Conclusion: the general statement is accurate in mainstream discussions. Verification / Alternative check: Review Oracle support matrices for specific versions to see supported OS lists; review analyst reports and benchmarks for adoption and performance. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Limiting to cloud or specific versions misses the long history of cross-version support. “Only on UNIX” ignores the Windows and Linux ecosystems. Common Pitfalls: Treating “popularity” as an absolute rather than a general enterprise context; ignoring version-specific platform support nuances. Final Answer: Correct

Question 17

SQLPlus metadata quick check: “You can check on the status or structure of tables with the DESCRIBE (DESC) command.” Determine whether this statement holds.

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: SQLPlus provides utility commands to inspect objects quickly. DESCRIBE (or DESC) is commonly used to reveal a table or view’s columns and datatypes. This question evaluates whether DESC helps you check a table’s “status/structure.” Given Data / Assumptions: Using SQLPlus or compatible clients that support the DESCRIBE command. Appropriate privileges to view metadata for the object in question. “Status” in everyday practice often means understanding columns, types, nullability, and sometimes constraints through other dictionary views; DESC focuses on structure, not runtime health. Concept / Approach: DESCRIBE table_name shows column names, datatypes, and NULL/NOT NULL information. Although DESC does not display indexes, constraints, or storage parameters, it is a quick structural check. For deeper inspection (for example, constraints, indexes), you query data dictionary views like USER_CONSTRAINTS, USER_INDEXES, and USER_TAB_COLUMNS. In that sense, DESC is indeed a valid way to “check on” the basic structure of a table within SQLPlus sessions. Step-by-Step Solution: Connect in SQLPlus and run: DESC emp;Review the listed columns, types, and nullability.Optionally query USER_TAB_COLUMNS for detailed metadata.Use data dictionary views for constraints and indexes as needed. Verification / Alternative check: Compare DESC output with USER_TAB_COLUMNS to verify consistency; use SELECT * FROM dictionary views for full metadata coverage. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Limiting DESC to views or requiring AUTOTRACE is incorrect; DESC works for tables, views, synonyms (resolving to base objects), etc. Object ownership affects privileges, not the command’s capability. Common Pitfalls: Expecting DESC to show constraints, indexes, or statistics; confusing DESC with DBA_ dictionary queries. Final Answer: Correct

Question 18

View definitions in Oracle: “Oracle allows the ORDER BY clause inside a CREATE VIEW definition.” Evaluate whether this statement is valid for standard view creation.

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Standard relational theory treats base tables and views as unordered sets of rows. Sorting is a presentation concern for queries that consume the view. This question asks whether Oracle permits ORDER BY directly in a normal (non-materialized) view's defining SELECT. Given Data / Assumptions: We are discussing conventional (non-materialized) views created by CREATE VIEW v AS SELECT ... Oracle enforces that a view does not inherently impose row order. Consumers of the view may specify ORDER BY when selecting from the view. Concept / Approach: In Oracle, CREATE VIEW ... AS SELECT ... cannot include ORDER BY unless the ORDER BY is used in a top-N style query where ORDER BY appears in a subquery paired with row-limiting logic (for example, ROWNUM or 12c row-limiting clause). Even then, the outermost defining query of a simple view normally must not end with ORDER BY. Therefore, stating that Oracle allows ORDER BY in the view definition as a general rule is incorrect. Materialized views, however, can have refresh and indexing strategies that affect access paths; still, row order is not guaranteed without ORDER BY in the consuming query. Step-by-Step Solution: Attempt CREATE VIEW v AS SELECT * FROM emp ORDER BY ename; → results in error.Place ORDER BY in a subquery for row limiting (advanced cases) → still, the outer view is unordered.Select from the view with ORDER BY to guarantee the desired order.Conclusion: Oracle does not generally allow ORDER BY directly in the view definition. Verification / Alternative check: Test in Oracle: try creating a simple view with ORDER BY and observe the compilation error; then query the view with an ORDER BY and confirm it works as intended. Why Other Options Are Wrong: “Correct” overstates Oracle capability for standard views. Materialized views and READ ONLY flags do not change the unordered nature of views. Row-limiting with FETCH FIRST belongs in queries that consume the view; it does not create a guaranteed order for the view result. Common Pitfalls: Expecting a view to “remember” sort order; depending on implicit order due to indexes. Final Answer: Incorrect

Question 19

Statement termination in SQLPlus: “The semicolon terminates a SQL statement (and executes it).” Decide whether this rule holds in Oracle client usage.

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Knowing how statements are terminated and executed is essential for reliable scripting. SQLPlus uses specific terminators to submit commands to the database. This question evaluates the role of the semicolon in ending and executing SQL statements. Given Data / Assumptions: Client is SQLPlus or another Oracle client that honors semicolon as a statement terminator. We are discussing SQL statements (SELECT, DML, DDL), not the entire PL/SQL execution flow. For PL/SQL blocks, a slash (/) on a line by itself is typically used to execute after the block is entered. Concept / Approach: In SQLPlus, a semicolon ends the SQL statement and causes it to be sent to the database engine for execution. For PL/SQL blocks, semicolons terminate individual statements within the block, but the block itself is executed when you enter a slash on a new line. For plain SQL, however, the semicolon both terminates and triggers execution. Thus, saying that “the semicolon terminates a SQL statement (and executes it)” is correct for SQL statements in SQLPlus. Step-by-Step Solution: Type a SQL statement without a terminator; it remains in the buffer.Add a semicolon and press Enter; SQLPlus submits the statement.Observe results returned or DDL/DML feedback.For PL/SQL, finish the block, then use / to execute. Verification / Alternative check: Try a quick SELECT 1 FROM dual; in SQL*Plus and confirm the semicolon triggers execution. Then type a PL/SQL block and note that execution requires slash on a new line. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Limiting to SELECT is incorrect—DDL and DML behave the same. AUTOCOMMIT affects transaction commits, not statement termination. Inside PL/SQL, semicolons end statements but do not execute the block; slash does. Common Pitfalls: Forgetting the slash for PL/SQL; assuming Enter alone executes. Final Answer: Correct

Question 20

Script files in SQLPlus: “The default file extension for SQLPlus scripts is .sql.” Decide whether this statement is correct in practice.

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: SQLPlus can execute SQL and PL/SQL scripts stored in files. Knowing the conventional file extension helps with tooling, editors, and discoverability. This question asks whether “.sql” is the default and customary extension for SQLPlus scripts. Given Data / Assumptions: Scripts are executed via START file, @file, or @@file within SQLPlus. SQLPlus looks for the named file and, if no extension is supplied, assumes .sql by convention. Operating system specifics (case sensitivity, path separators) do not alter the default extension convention. Concept / Approach: In SQLPlus usage, .sql is the de facto and traditional extension for script files. When you invoke @myscript without an extension, SQLPlus attempts myscript.sql in the current or SQLPATH directories. Other extensions can be used if fully specified (for example, @myscript.sqlx), but the default behavior and tooling expectations center around .sql. Therefore, stating that “the default extension for SQLPlus is .sql” is correct in everyday Oracle practice. Step-by-Step Solution: Create a file named demo.sql with SQL statements.In SQLPlus, run @demo → SQLPlus locates demo.sql and executes it.Rename the file with a nonstandard extension and try @demo → not found unless you supply the extension.Conclusion: .sql is the default expected extension. Verification / Alternative check: Check SQLPlus documentation for the START/@ command behavior and SQLPATH lookup; verify on your environment by experimenting with file names. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Platform, SPOOL usage, or PL/SQL content do not change the extension convention. Common Pitfalls: Forgetting SQLPATH; placing scripts in directories not on the path; assuming the client will guess a non-.sql extension. Final Answer: Correct

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