Difficulty: Easy
Correct Answer: SQL
Explanation:
Introduction / Context:
Database Management Systems (DBMSs) expose a standardized way to retrieve and manipulate data. While many programming paradigms exist, a single domain-specific language has become the de facto standard across relational platforms for defining schemas, querying records, and enforcing constraints. This question asks you to identify that primary language used by most DBMSs to access data.
Given Data / Assumptions:
Concept / Approach:
The Structured Query Language (SQL) provides Data Definition Language (DDL) for schemas, Data Manipulation Language (DML) for CRUD, and Data Control Language (DCL) for permissions. Although there are fourth-generation languages (4GLs) and general-purpose languages (e.g., Java, Python), these typically call into SQL drivers to communicate with the DBMS. Therefore, SQL is the common denominator across vendors and tools for direct data access and manipulation.
Step-by-Step Solution:
Verification / Alternative check:
Examine documentation for any major RDBMS—each supports SQL as the core interface. Application libraries (ODBC, JDBC, drivers) ultimately transmit SQL to the engine for execution.
Why Other Options Are Wrong:
High level language: General purpose (e.g., C, Java) rather than DB-native.
Query language: A generic category, not the specific standard.
4GL: Frameworks can generate SQL but are not the universal lingua franca.
None of the above: Incorrect because SQL is precisely the standard.
Common Pitfalls:
Confusing application language with database language; even ORMs emit SQL under the hood.
Final Answer:
SQL
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