Normalization benefits: Eliminating modification anomalies (update, insert, and delete anomalies) is best described as a(n) ________ of normalization.

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: advantage

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
Modification anomalies arise when redundant storage forces multiple changes to keep facts consistent (update), prevents inserting data until unrelated facts are known (insert), or causes unintended loss of facts when rows are deleted (delete). Normalization directly targets these issues.



Given Data / Assumptions:

  • We are evaluating normalization's outcomes.
  • Anomalies appear in poorly structured, denormalized tables.
  • Good schemas align attributes with their determining keys.


Concept / Approach:

Through decomposition governed by functional dependencies, normalization ensures each fact is stored in exactly one appropriate place, linked by keys. This removes redundancy and the resulting anomalies. Thus, eliminating modification anomalies is a core advantage of normalization and a primary reason it is taught and practiced.



Step-by-Step Solution:

Identify repeating groups and attributes not fully dependent on the key.Decompose into relations where each non-key depends on the key, the whole key, and nothing but the key.Verify that updates, inserts, and deletes affect only the intended facts.


Verification / Alternative check:

Demonstrate with examples: moving CustomerAddress to the Customer table eliminates repeated updates across many Orders and prevents inconsistent values.



Why Other Options Are Wrong:

Calling it a disadvantage or neutral misrepresents the well-known benefit of normalization.



Common Pitfalls:

Mistaking query complexity for a reason to abandon normalization entirely; instead, use views or materialized views to balance performance and integrity.



Final Answer:

advantage

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