Original goals of the SQL language What was SQL originally designed to accomplish within relational database systems?

Introduction / Context:
SQL emerged from the relational model to provide a declarative, vendor-neutral way to define schemas and manipulate data. Its scope covers both structure and data, enabling a complete lifecycle from creation to query to update using a single language.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Relational databases require a language for structure (DDL) and data (DML).
• Standards bodies formalized SQL so multiple vendors could implement it.
• Constraints and relationships are part of the structural definition.

Concept / Approach:

SQL's charter includes DDL (CREATE/ALTER/DROP) to define tables, keys, and constraints; DML (SELECT/INSERT/UPDATE/DELETE) to read and modify data; and related control statements for permissions and transactions. Therefore, its original purpose encompasses all items listed except operating-system concerns.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:

Historical papers on System R and standards documentation confirm SQL's dual role in structure and manipulation, later expanded by security and transaction controls.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• A/B/C alone are too narrow; SQL was not limited to a single facet.
• E: Outside SQL's scope; OS file handles are managed by the DBMS internals, not SQL.

Common Pitfalls:

• Equating SQL only with querying, ignoring DDL and constraints that enforce data quality.

Final Answer:

All of the above.