In SQL, what does the DROP TABLE statement do with respect to the table’s structure and data, considering referential integrity?

Introduction / Context:
Managing schema objects is a core DBA task. DROP TABLE is a destructive DDL operation that removes a table definition and its stored rows.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Standard SQL behavior is considered.
• Foreign key constraints may reference the table.

Concept / Approach:
DROP TABLE removes both the table's metadata and all its data pages. However, if other objects (for example, foreign keys) depend on it, the DBMS may block the drop unless constraints are removed or CASCADE options are used (varies by DBMS).

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:
Experiment on a test schema: create a table, insert rows, DROP TABLE; afterward, both the definition and rows are gone.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• Structure only: incorrect; TRUNCATE removes data but leaves structure, DROP removes both.
• “Always works”: false; constraints can block it.
• “Not an SQL statement”: incorrect.

Common Pitfalls:
Confusing DROP TABLE with TRUNCATE TABLE (which removes rows but keeps the table) or with DELETE (DML) which removes rows but not structure.

Final Answer:
Deletes the table structure along with all table data