SQL DDL basics: What is the primary use of the CREATE TABLE statement in SQL schema definition?

Introduction / Context:
SQL Data Definition Language (DDL) includes statements to create and modify database objects. Understanding the distinct roles of CREATE and ALTER operations prevents accidental structural changes or errors during deployment scripts.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• The question asks about the role of CREATE TABLE.
• We compare it with operations that belong to ALTER TABLE.
• We assume standard SQL semantics.

Concept / Approach:
CREATE TABLE defines a new table: column names, data types, nullability, defaults, constraints (primary/foreign keys, checks), and, depending on the DBMS, storage parameters (tablespace, partitioning). ALTER TABLE is used later to add/drop columns, change constraints, or modify some storage characteristics. Therefore only option (a) correctly states the primary purpose of CREATE TABLE.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Identify CREATE vs. ALTER responsibilities in SQL.Map options (b), (c), (d) to ALTER TABLE operations.Select (a) as the accurate description of CREATE TABLE.

Verification / Alternative check:
Consult any SQL reference: CREATE TABLE syntax block lists column definitions and constraints; subsequent adjustments use ALTER TABLE ADD/MODIFY/DROP clauses.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• Adding columns or constraints, redefining columns, changing storage: These are ALTER TABLE tasks.
• All of the above: Overinclusive and conflates CREATE with ALTER responsibilities.

Common Pitfalls:
Attempting to re-run CREATE TABLE on an existing name (causes errors) or using CREATE to “change” structures instead of ALTER.

Final Answer:
to create a table, defining its columns, integrity constrains, and storage allocation