The ODBC core API for database connectivity includes which of the following types of functions as part of its basic capabilities?

Introduction / Context:
This question focuses on the ODBC core API, which is a set of standardized functions that applications use to connect to databases in a portable way. ODBC provides functions for establishing connections, executing SQL statements, managing transactions, and retrieving results. Understanding what belongs to the ODBC core API helps distinguish essential connectivity and transaction features from extended or driver specific functionality.

Given Data / Assumptions:

We are dealing with the ODBC core API, not extended or driver specific APIs.
Typical core operations include connecting to data sources and managing transactions.
Options mention commit or rollback transactions and connecting to data sources.
One option combines both connection and transaction functions as part of the core API.
Other options restrict ODBC to only one type of function or emphasize driver specific behavior.

Concept / Approach:
ODBC defines a set of function calls that are essential for database access in a database independent way. Among these are functions such as SQLConnect or SQLDriverConnect for establishing connections to data sources, and SQLEndTran or SQLTransact for committing or rolling back transactions. These functions form part of the core ODBC API. Extended functions and driver specific capabilities go beyond this core, but the ability to connect and control transactions is fundamental. Therefore, the answer that includes both connection and transaction functions as part of the core API is the most accurate.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Recall that the ODBC core API must allow applications to connect to a data source and manage transactions.Step 2: Identify the option that mentions only commit or rollback functions without connection management and recognize that it is incomplete.Step 3: Identify the option that mentions only connection functions and see that it ignores necessary transaction control.Step 4: Note that core ODBC is standardized and not limited to driver specific connection methods alone.Step 5: Select the option that states both connection and transaction control functions are part of the ODBC core API.

Verification / Alternative check:
ODBC documentation lists connection functions such as SQLConnect, SQLDriverConnect, and transaction related functions like SQLEndTran. These are clearly designated as part of the core interface for database access. Extended APIs cover additional features like bulk operations or procedure catalog functions, but the basic ability to connect and control transactions is always included. This confirms that the combined option is correct and that the options describing only one function category are incomplete.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
The option that restricts the core API to commit or rollback functions only is incorrect because an API that could not connect to data sources would not be useful on its own. The option that limits the core to connection functions without transaction control is also incomplete, as transaction management is a basic requirement. The option about driver specific connection information misrepresents ODBC, which aims to provide a standardized interface across different drivers. The option that claims the core consists only of metadata discovery functions ignores the fundamental role of connection and transaction control in ODBC.

Common Pitfalls:
Students sometimes think of ODBC only as a connectivity layer and forget that it also provides transaction control. Others may confuse core functionality with extended features or driver specific extensions. To avoid these misunderstandings, remember that the core API must support the entire lifecycle of a database session, including connecting, executing statements, and committing or rolling back work. This holistic view makes it easier to identify correct options in exam questions.

Final Answer:
The ODBC core API includes both transaction control functions such as commit or rollback and functions to connect to data sources.