BACHELOR OF COMPUTER

DCA1208: Database Management System

APPLICATION
SEMESTER 2

DCA1208
DATABASE MANAGEMENT SYSTEM
Unit: 1 - Introduction to DBMS 1
DCA1208: Database Management System

Unit - 1
Introduction to DBMS

DCA324
KNOWLEDGE MANAGEMENT
Unit: 1 - Introduction to DBMS 2
DCA1208: Database Management System
TABLE OF CONTENTS

SL Fig No / Table SAQ /

Topic Page No
No / Graph Activity

1 Introduction - -
4
1.1 Objectives - -

2 Concept of Database 1 - 5-6

3 Characteristics of Database Approach - - 7-8

4 What is DBMS - -
9-11
4.1 Importance of DBMS - -

5 Overview of DBMS - -
5.1 Components of DBMS 2 -
12-16
5.2 Key Concepts in DBMS - -
5.3 Database System Applications - -

6 Summary - - 17-18

7 Glossary - - 19-20

8 Self-Assessment Questions - 1 21-24

9 Terminal Questions - - 25

10 Answers - -
10.1 Self-Assessment Questions - - 26-27
10.2 Terminal Questions - -

11 References - - 28

Unit: 1 - Introduction to DBMS 3

DCA1208: Database Management System

1. INTRODUCTION
In this unit, we will introduce the basic concepts of DBMS. Database technology development has
evolved rapidly over the past three decades since relational database systems' rise and eventual
dominance. While many specialised database systems (spatial, object-oriented, multimedia, etc.) have
found substantial user communities in the science and engineering sections, relational systems
remain the preferred database technology for business enterprises.

A database is a collection of related information stored to be available to several users for various
purposes. The content of a database is obtained by combining data from all the different sources in
an organisation so that data are available to all users and replicated data can be minimised or
eliminated. A computer database gives us an electronic filing system, which has many ways of cross-
referencing and allows the user several ways to retrieve and reorganise data.

1.1. Objectives
By the end of Unit 1, the learners should be able to:
• Define Database management system
• List the characteristics of the Database Approach
• Discuss the importance of Database Management
Systems
• Classify the components of DBMS
• Identify the Applications of Database Systems

Unit: 1 - Introduction to DBMS 4

DCA1208: Database Management System

2. CONCEPT OF DATABASE
The database is a collection of related data. A data item is the smallest identified unit of data that has
value in the real world – for example, last name, first name, street address, ID number, or political
party – and is the fundamental component of a file in a file system. A group of related data items
considered a single unit by an application is called a record. Examples of types of records are
salesperson, customer, order, product,and department. A file is a collection of several records of a
single type.

Fig.1 Database

A database has the following properties:

• A database represents an aspect of the real world, sometimes called the universe of discourse
(UoD) or mini world. The database keeps track of changes to the mini world.
• A database is a logically organised collection of data with some meaning.
• A database is designed, built, and populated with relevant data for a specific purpose.

A database is a more complex object; it is a collection of interrelated stored data that facilitates the
requirements of several users within one or more organisations, that is, interrelated collections of
many different types oftables. The encouragement for using databases rather than files includesless
redundancy of data, greater availability to a diverse set of users, and integration of data for easier
access to and updating complextransactions.

The basic definitions of some database concepts are:

Data: Data is a collection of known facts that may be recorded and have an underlying significance.

Database: It is a collection of related data.

Unit: 1 - Introduction to DBMS 5

DCA1208: Database Management System

Database System: It consists of the DBMS software and the data [Link], the applications
are also included.

Database Management System (DBMS): A software package/system facilitates creating and

maintaining a computerised database.

Database management systems software examples include Oracle, SQL Server, MS Access, DB2,
SYBASE, and INFORMIX.

A database can handle accounting, filing, and business inventory and use the information in its files
to prepare summaries, estimates, and other reports. There can be a database that stores books,
newspaper articles, magazines, and comics. There is already a well-defined market for specialised
knowledge for a small number of customers on practically every issue.

The management of data in a database system is handled by a database management system, which
is a general-purpose software programme. The database management system is the major software
component of a database system. Therefore, a database management system is a combination of
hardware and software that can be used to set up and monitor a database and can manage the
retrieval and updating of the database that has been stored in it. Most database management systems
have the following capabilities:
• Creating a file, addition to data, modification of data, deletion of data,creation, addition, and
deletion of files.
• Retrieving data selectively or collectively.
• The data can be sorted or indexed at the user's discretion and direction.
• The system can generate several reports. These may be standardised reports or generated
explicitly according to user requirements.
• Mathematical functions can be performed on data stored in the database and manipulated
using these functions to perform the desired calculations.

Unit: 1 - Introduction to DBMS 6

DCA1208: Database Management System

3. CHARACTERISTICS OF DATABASE APPROACH

Here are several characteristics that distinguish the database approach from the file-based system.
This discussion outlines the benefits and features of database systems:
• Self-Describing Nature of a Database System: A database system is self-describing because it
contains not only the data itself but also metadata that defines and describes the data and
relationships between tables in the database. This metadata is used by the DBMS software or
database users when needed. This separation of data and metadata differentiates a database
system from the traditional file-based system, where data definitions are embedded in
application programs.
• Insulation Between Program and Data: In file-based systems, data file structures are defined
within application programs. If a file's structure changes, all programs accessing that file may
need to be modified. In contrast, the database approach stores data structures in the system
catalogue, separate from the programs. Thus, changing the data structure requires only a single
update, known as program-data independence.
• Support for Multiple Views of Data: Databases support multiple views and subsets of the
database dedicated to specific users or groups. Different users can have customised views of the
system, each containing only the data relevant to them.
• Sharing of Data and Multiuser System: Modern database systems are designed for multiple
users, allowing concurrent access to the same database. Concurrency control strategies ensure
data integrity and correctness even when accessed simultaneously by multiple users. This is a
significant improvement over older systems that restricted usage to one user at a time.
• Control of Data Redundancy: In the database approach, each data item is ideally stored in only
one place. While some redundancy might be introduced to enhance performance, it is controlled
and minimised during database design.
• Data Sharing: Integrating all organisational data within a database system facilitates data
sharing among authorised users and enables users to generate more information from the data
than is possible without such integration.
• Enforcement of Integrity Constraints: Database management systems allow users to define
and enforce constraints to ensure the validity and integrity of data. Constraints can range from
data types and uniqueness to complex rules ensuring that only valid data is entered.

Unit: 1 - Introduction to DBMS 7

DCA1208: Database Management System

• Restriction of Unauthorised Access: Not all users have the same access privileges in a
database system. Some users have read-only access, while others have read and write privileges.
DBMSs provide a security subsystem to create and control different user accounts, restricting
unauthorised access.
• Data Independence: A significant advantage of DBMSs is data independence. System data
descriptions (metadata) are separated from application programs, and changes to data
structures are managed by the DBMS rather than embedded in the programs.
• Transaction Processing: DBMSs include concurrency control subsystems to ensure data
consistency and validity during transaction processing, even when multiple users update the
same information simultaneously.
• Provision for Multiple Views of Data: DBMSs allow multiple users to access the database
individually or simultaneously without knowing how and where the data is stored.
• Backup and Recovery Facilities: Backup and recovery methods protect data from loss. DBMSs
provide processes for backing up and recovering data independently of network backups.
Recovery subsystems ensure the database can be restored to its original state if a system fails
during a complex update process.

These characteristics and features highlight the advantages of the database approach over traditional
file-based systems

Unit: 1 - Introduction to DBMS 8

DCA1208: Database Management System

4. WHAT IS DBMS AND ITS IMPORTANCE

DBMS is a general-purpose software system that facilitates the processes of defining, constructing,
manipulating, and sharing databases among various users and applications.

Defining a database involves specifying the data types, structures, and constraints of the data to be
stored in the database. The DBMS also stores the database definition or descriptive information as a
database catalogue or dictionary called meta-data.

Constructing the database is the process of storing the data on a storage medium controlled by the
DBMS.

Manipulating a database includes functions such as querying it to retrieve specific data, updating it
to reflect changes in the mini world, and generating reports from the data.

Sharing a database allows multiple users and programs to access the database simultaneously.

Database management systems software examples include Oracle, SQL Server, MS Access, DB2,
SYBASE, and INFORMIX.

A database can handle accounting, filing, and business inventory and use the information in its files
to prepare summaries, estimates, and other reports. There can be a database that stores books,
newspaper articles, magazines, and comics. There is already a well-defined market for specialised
knowledge for a small number of customers on practically every issue.

The management of data in a database system is handled by a database management system, which
is a general-purpose software programme. The database management system is the major software
component of a database system. Therefore, a database management system is a combination of
hardware and software that can be used to set up and monitor a database and can manage the
retrieval and updating of the database that has been stored in it. Most database management systems
have the following capabilities:
• Creating a file, addition to data, modification of data, deletion of data,creation, addition, and
deletion of files.
• Retrieving data selectively or collectively.
• The data can be sorted or indexed at the user's discretion and direction.

Unit: 1 - Introduction to DBMS 9

DCA1208: Database Management System

• The system can generate several reports. These may be standardised or specifically generated
according to specific user requirements.
• Mathematical functions can be performed on data stored in the database and manipulated
using these functions to perform the desired calculations.

4.1. Importance of DBMS (Database Management Systems)

A Database Management System is crucial for effectively managing and utilising data in various
applications. The importance of DBMS can be understood through its numerous benefits and
functionalities:

1. Data Integrity and Security: DBMS ensures data accuracy and consistency through constraints
and rules that prevent invalid data entry. It also provides robust security mechanisms, including
authentication and encryption, to protect data from unauthorised access.
2. Efficient Data Management: DBMS organises data in a structured manner, making it easy to
retrieve, update, and manage. Efficient query processing and indexing techniques in DBMS
enable fast and accurate data retrieval.
3. Data Abstraction and Independence: DBMS abstracts the complexities of data storage from
the end users, allowing them to interact with data at a higher level. DBMS supports logical and
physical data independence, allowing changes in the schema at one level without affecting other
levels.
4. Concurrency Control: DBMS allows multiple users to access and manipulate data
simultaneously without interference, ensuring data consistency and isolation. DBMS manages
transactions to ensure that all operations within a transaction are completed successfully,
maintaining database integrity.
5. Data Redundancy Control: DBMS reduces data redundancy by integrating data into a single
database system, eliminating duplicate data entries. The normalisation process in DBMS helps
minimise redundancy and improve data integrity.
6. Backup and Recovery: DBMS provides automated backup mechanisms to safeguard data
against accidental loss or corruption. In case of a system failure, DBMS has recovery procedures
to restore the database to its last consistent state.
7. Data Sharing: DBMS supports data sharing among multiple users and applications, promoting
collaborative data usage. It integrates data from various sources, providing a unified view of the
data for decision-making and analysis.

Unit: 1 - Introduction to DBMS 10

DCA1208: Database Management System

8. Improved Data Access: DBMS uses query languages like SQL to enable users to interact with
the database easily, making data access more efficient. It supports various reporting and
analysis tools that help generate meaningful insights from the data.
9. Support for Data Integrity Constraints: DBMS enforces integrity constraints (e.g., primary
keys, foreign keys) to maintain the accuracy and reliability of data. It provides mechanisms to
define and enforce data validation rules, ensuring data quality.

Unit: 1 - Introduction to DBMS 11

DCA1208: Database Management System

5. OVERVIEW OF DBMS
DBMS is a general-purpose software system that facilitates the processes of defining, constructing,
manipulating, and sharing databases among various users and applications.

5.1. Components of DBMS

A database management system (DBMS) consists of several components.

Each component plays a very important role in the database management system environment. The
significant components of a database management system are:

Fig.2 Components of DBMS

HARDWARE: The hardware is the computer system used to keep and access the database. It consists
of physical and electronic devices such as computers (together with associated I/O devices like disk
drives), storage devices, I/O channels, electromechanical devices that interface between computers
and real-world systems, and so on. It is impossible to implement the DBMS without the hardware
devices; in a network, a powerful computer with high data processing speed and a storage device with
large storage capacity is required as the database server.

SOFTWARE: The main component of a DBMS is the software. It is the set of programs used to handle
the database and to control and manage the overall computerised database. DBMS software itself is
the most important software component in the overall system.

DATA: Data is the most important component of the DBMS. The main purpose of DBMS is to process
data. In DBMS, databases are defined and constructed, and then data is stored, updated, and retrieved
to and from the databases. The database contains both the actual data and the metadata.

Unit: 1 - Introduction to DBMS 12

DCA1208: Database Management System

PROCEDURES: Procedures refer to the instructions and rules that help design the database and use
the DBMS. The users who operate and manage the DBMS require documented procedures when they
use it hot or run the database management system.

USERS: Database users are the people who manage the databases and perform various operations on
them in the database system. Three kinds of people play different roles in database systems.
• Application Programmers: These users implement specific application programs to access the
stored data. They must be familiar with the DBMSs to accomplish their task.
• Database Administrators: These may be one person or a group of people in an organisation
responsible for authorising access to the database, monitoring its use, and managing all the
resources necessary to support the use of the entire database system.
• End-Users: End users are the people whose jobs require access to a database for querying,
updating and generating reports.

5.2. Key Concepts in DBMS

To efficiently manage data using a DBMS, let us understand certain key terms:
Database Schema: Database Schema is the design of a database. The skeleton of the database
represents the structure (table names and their fields/columns), the type of data each column can
hold, constraints on the data to be stored (if any), and the relationships among the tables.

The database schema is also called visual or logical architecture, as it tells us how the data are
organised in a database.

Data Constraint Sometimes, we restrict or limit the type of data that can be inserted in one or more
columns of a table by specifying one or more constraints on that column(s) while creating the table.
Constraints are used to ensure the accuracy and reliability of data in the database.

Meta-data or Data Dictionary The database schema, along with various constraints on the data, is
stored by DBMS in a database catalogue or dictionary, called meta-data. Meta-data is data about the
data.

Database Instance When we define the database structure or schema, the database's state is empty,
i.e., no data entry is present. After loading data, the state or snapshot of the database at any given time
is the database instance. We may then retrieve data through queries or manipulate data through

Unit: 1 - Introduction to DBMS 13

DCA1208: Database Management System

updation, modification, or deletion. Thus, the database's state can change; thus, a database schema
can have many instances at different times.

Query A query is a request to a database to obtain information in a desired way. A query can get data
from one table or a combination of tables. For example, “find names of all those students present on
Attendance Date 2000-01-02” is a query to the database. The user must write a query using a query
language to retrieve or manipulate data.

Data Manipulation Modification of the database consists of three operations viz. Insertion, Deletion
or Update. Suppose Rivaan joins as a new student in the class then the student details need to be
added in STUDENT as well as in GUARDIAN files of the Student Attendance database. This is called
Insertion operation on the database. If a student leaves the school, his/her data and guardian details
must be removed from the STUDENT, GUARDIAN and ATTENDANCE files, respectively. This is called
the Deletion operation on the database. Suppose Atharv’s Guardian has changed his mobile number;
his GPhone should be updated in the GUARDIAN file. This is called the Update operation on the
database.

Database Engine Database engine is the underlying component or set of programs a DBMS uses to
create a database and handle various queries for data retrieval and manipulation.

5.3. Database System Applications

Databases are widely used. Here are some of the representative applications:
• Universities: Databases serve as foundational tools across various sectors, facilitating the
efficient management and retrieval of vast amounts of structured data. In universities, databases
are instrumental in handling student information, managing course registrations, scheduling
exams, and recording grades. These systems streamline administrative tasks and enhance
student services by providing centralised access to academic records.
• Credit card transactions: These transactions are for purchases on credit cards and the
generation of monthly statements and payments.
• Banking: For accounts and loans, customer information, and banking transactions
online/offline.
• Finance: This stores information regarding financial instrument holdings, sales, and purchases,
such as stocks and bonds.

Unit: 1 - Introduction to DBMS 14

DCA1208: Database Management System

• Sales: Databases store essential information about customers, products, and purchases in the
sales and retail sectors. These systems support sales analytics, inventory management, and
personalised customer experiences by tracking buying patterns and preferences, optimising
marketing strategies, and operational efficiency.
• Telecommunication: Telecommunication companies rely on databases to manage vast
volumes of data related to customer calls, prepaid card balances, monthly billing, and network
infrastructure. These systems ensure seamless communication services, enabling accurate
billing and customer support across global networks.
• Manufacturing: In manufacturing, databases oversee inventory management across
warehouses, track supply chain operations, monitor production processes, and manage orders
for various products. This integration optimises manufacturing workflows, enhances inventory
accuracy, and supports efficient logistics and distribution strategies.
• Human resources: Human resources departments utilise databases to maintain employee
records, manage payroll taxes, administer benefits, and process payroll. These systems
streamline HR operations, ensure compliance with employment regulations, and facilitate
timely and accurate payroll processing, thereby supporting employee satisfaction and
organisational efficiency.
• Airlines: Airlines pioneered geographically distributed databases, enabling terminals
worldwide to access centralised systems for reservations, cancellations, and schedule
management. This approach revolutionised global travel operations by ensuring real-time
updates and seamless passenger service across diverse locations.

So, we can say that databases are essential to almost all enterprises today. During the last four
decades of the twentieth century, the useof databases grew in all enterprises. Few people engaged
directly with database systems in the early days, but they did so indirectly through printed reports
such as credit card statements or through agents such as bank tellers and airline reservation agents
– without recognising it. Then automated teller machines came along and let users interact directly
with databases. Phone interfaces to computers also facilitated users to deal with databases directly.
For example – a caller could dial a number and press phone keys to enter information or select
alternative options to find flight arrival/departure times.

The Internet revolution sharply increased direct user access to databases during the late 1990s.
Organisations converted many phone interfaces to databases into Web interfaces and facilitated

Unit: 1 - Introduction to DBMS 15

DCA1208: Database Management System

different online services and information. For example, when you access a website, information about
you may be retrieved from a database to selectwhich advertisements should be shown.

When you explore a book or music collection in an online retailer, you access data stored in a database.

When you place an online order, it is saved in a database.

The data is pulled from the bank's database system when you visit a bank's website to get your
account balance and transaction history. Moreover, data related to Web access may be stored in a
database. Thus, although user interfaces hide details of access to a database, and most people are
unaware they are dealing with a database, accessing databases forms an essential part of almost
everyone’s life these days. The importance of database systems can be judged in another way – today,
database system vendors like Oracle are among the largest software companies in the world, and
database systems form an essential part of the product line of more diversified companies like IBM
and Microsoft.

Unit: 1 - Introduction to DBMS 16

DCA1208: Database Management System

6. SUMMARY
A Database Management System (DBMS) is a software system that enables users to define, create,
maintain, and control access to databases. It provides an efficient and systematic way to manage data,
allowing for data storage, retrieval, and manipulation in a structured manner. DBMSs are essential
for managing large volumes of data and ensuring that data is accurate, consistent, and secure. They
form the backbone of various applications across different industries, enhancing data management
and operational efficiency.

The database approach offers several key characteristics that distinguish it from traditional file-based
systems. These include data abstraction, which hides the complexity of data structures; data
independence, allowing changes at one level without affecting others; and reduced data redundancy
through normalisation. The database also enhances data integrity, security, and concurrent access,
enabling multiple users to interact with the data simultaneously without conflicts. These
characteristics collectively improve data management, accessibility, and reliability.

A DBMS is a collection of programs that facilitates database creation, maintenance, and use. It serves
as an intermediary between users and the database, ensuring data is stored efficiently and quickly
retrieved. DBMSs support various functions, including defining data structures, querying data,
updating records, and managing transactions. Popular examples of DBMSs include MySQL, Oracle,
SQL Server, and PostgreSQL, each offering different features tailored to specific requirements.

The importance of DBMSs lies in their ability to provide a systematic and efficient way to handle data.
They ensure data integrity, security, and consistency, which are critical for decision-making and
operational processes. DBMSs also facilitate data sharing among multiple users and applications,
support concurrent data access, and provide robust backup and recovery mechanisms. By minimising
data redundancy and optimising resource utilisation, DBMSs reduce the overall data management
cost and enhance applications' performance and scalability.

DBMSs consist of several key components, including the database engine, schema, data definition
language (DDL), data manipulation language (DML), data control language (DCL), and database
utilities. Key concepts in DBMS include data models, schemas, instances, keys, and normalisation.
DBMS applications span various domains, such as banking, telecommunications, education, and e-
commerce, where efficient data management is crucial. Understanding these components and

Unit: 1 - Introduction to DBMS 17

DCA1208: Database Management System

concepts is essential for leveraging the full potential of DBMSs in building robust and scalable
database systems.

Unit: 1 - Introduction to DBMS 18

DCA1208: Database Management System

7. GLOSSARY

A DBMS is software that interacts with end users, applications, and the

DBMS (Database database to capture and analyse data. It provides an interface for users to

Management - create, retrieve, update, and manage data efficiently. DBMSs ensure data
System) integrity, security, and consistency, allowing multiple users to interact
with the database concurrently.

A database is an organised collection of data stored and accessed

electronically from a computer system. Databases can be complex,
Database - comprising many tables, views, and other objects that store data in a

structured format, supporting easy retrieval and manipulation.

Concurrency in databases refers to the ability of the DBMS to allow

multiple users to access and manipulate data simultaneously without

Concurrency - causing inconsistencies or conflicts. It ensures that transactions are

executed in a way that preserves data integrity and isolation, often using
mechanisms like locking and transaction management.

Metadata is data that describes other data. In the context of databases,

metadata includes information about the structure of the database, such

Metadata - as the schema, tables, columns, data types, constraints, and relationships.
Metadata is stored in a data dictionary or catalog and is crucial for the
DBMS to manage and use the data effectively.

A backup is a copy of database data taken to ensure that it can be restored

in case of data loss, corruption, or system failure. Backup processes can be

Backup - automated and are essential for data recovery and business continuity.
Depending on the backup strategy, they can be full, incremental, or
differential.

Redundancy in databases refers to unnecessary data duplication within

Redundancy - the database. While some redundancy can benefit performance and
reliability, excessive redundancy can lead to data anomalies and increased

Unit: 1 - Introduction to DBMS 19

DCA1208: Database Management System

storage costs. Techniques like normalisation are used to reduce

redundancy and ensure data integrity.

Data sharing in a DBMS allows multiple users and applications to access

and use the data concurrently. This capability supports collaborative

Data Sharing - work environments and integrated operations across different

departments and systems, ensuring users have the necessary data for
their tasks.

SQL is a standardised programming language used to manage and

manipulate relational databases. It includes commands for querying,
SQL (Structured
- updating, inserting, and deleting data and defining and managing the
Query Language) database schema. SQL is the primary language used in DBMSs to interact
with the data.

A schema is the overall logical structure of a database. It defines how data

is organised, including tables, columns, data types, relationships, indexes,
Schema - and constraints. The schema serves as a blueprint for the database,

dictating how data is stored, accessed, and manipulated.

The database engine is the core component of a DBMS and is responsible

for storing, retrieving, and managing data. It handles query processing,

Database Engine - transaction management, and data storage, ensuring operations are
performed efficiently and accurately. The engine includes mechanisms for
indexing, caching, and ensuring ACID properties.

Unit: 1 - Introduction to DBMS 20

DCA1208: Database Management System

8. SELF-ASSESSMENT QUESTIONS

SELF-ASSESSMENT QUESTIONS – 1
Fill in the blanks:
1 What is a database?
a) A collection of interrelated stored data facilitating the requirements of several users within
one or more organisations.
b) A single table containing all the data for an organisation.
c) A software system designed for creating spreadsheets.
d) A programming language used to manage data.
2 What is the smallest identified unit of data that has value in the real world?
a) Record
b) Data item
c) File
d) Database
3 What is a record?
a) A collection of several records of a single type.
b) The smallest identified unit of data.
c) A group of related data items considered a single unit by an application.
d) A logically organised collection of data with some meaning.
4 Which of the following is an example of a record type?
a) Last name
b) Street address
c) Salesperson
d) ID number
5 What does a database system contain besides the data itself?
a) Only the data
b) Only metadata
c) Data and metadata that defines and describes the data and relationships between tables
d) Only application programs

Unit: 1 - Introduction to DBMS 21

DCA1208: Database Management System

6 Which characteristic of a database approach allows different users to have customised views
of the data?
a) Self-describing nature
b) Insulation between program and data
c) Support for multiple views of data
d) Control of data redundancy
7 What is the main software component of a database system?
a) Database
b) Data
c) Database Management System (DBMS)
d) Application programs
8 Which of the following is NOT a capability of most DBMSs?
a) Creating a file
b) Deleting data
c) Sorting or indexing data
d) Building computer hardware
9 What is the role of hardware in a DBMS environment?
a) Provides procedures for managing the database
b) Stores and retrieves data from the database
c) Contains physical and electronic devices used to store and access the database
d) Defines the structure of the database schema
10 Which component of DBMS is responsible for handling the overall computerised database?
a) Procedures
b) Software
c) Users
d) Data
11 What is metadata in a DBMS context?
a) Actual data stored in the database
b) Hardware used to store the database
c) Data about the data, including database schema and constraints
d) Users who manage and operate the DBMS
12 Who are the end-users in a database system?

Unit: 1 - Introduction to DBMS 22

DCA1208: Database Management System

a) Application programmers
b) Database administrators
c) Users responsible for authorising access to the database
d) People whose jobs require access to the database for querying and updating
13 What is a database schema?
a) A set of procedures for managing the database
b) A collection of data stored in the database
c) Data about the data stored in the database
d) The design of a database, including structure and relationships
14 What does a database instance refer to?
a) Data stored in the database
b) The design of the database schema
c) A snapshot of the database state at a specific time
d) Metadata stored in the database
15 What is a query in the context of a DBMS?
a) A request to obtain information from the database
b) A type of database schema
c) Data constraints applied to columns
d) A procedure for manipulating data
16 Which operation is NOT part of data manipulation in a DBMS?
a) Insertion
b) Deletion
c) Update
d) Sorting
17 What is the function of a database engine in a DBMS?
a) It manages user access to the database
b) It stores metadata about the database
c) It handles queries for data retrieval and manipulation
d) It defines the structure of the database schema
18 Which of the following is an example of a database application?
a) Programming languages
b) Operating systems

Unit: 1 - Introduction to DBMS 23

DCA1208: Database Management System

c) Internet browsers
d) Banking transactions
19 How did the Internet revolution impact database usage?
a) Reduced user access to databases
b) Increased indirect interaction with databases
c) Converted phone interfaces to Web interfaces for database access
d) Decreased the role of database vendor
20 What role do automated teller machines (ATMs) play in database usage?
a) They restrict direct user access to databases
b) They facilitate direct interaction with databases
c) They provide physical storage for database servers
d) They store metadata about the database

Unit: 1 - Introduction to DBMS 24

DCA1208: Database Management System

9. TERMINAL QUESTIONS
1. Explain the concept of a database with an example.
2. Why is a DBMS important in modern data management?
3. Provide an overview of a DBMS and its main components.
4. What are the representative applications of Databases? List them.
5. Define a Database.
6. List the characteristics of the Database Approach.
7. Differentiate between Database Schema vs. Database Instance.
8. Explain Metadata.
9. What do you mean by Data Manipulation
10. Define Data constraint.

Unit: 1 - Introduction to DBMS 25

DCA1208: Database Management System

10. ANSWERS

10.1. Self-Assessment Answers

1. a A collection of interrelated stored data facilitating the requirements of several users within
one or more organisations.
2. b Data item
3. c A group of related data items considered a single unit by an application.
4. c Salesperson
5. c Data and metadata that defines and describes the data and relationships between tables
6. c Support for multiple views of data
7. c Database Management System (DBMS)
8. d Building computer hardware
9. c Contains physical and electronic devices used to store and access the database
10. b Software
11. c Data about the data, including database schema and constraints
12. d People whose jobs require access to the database for querying and updating
13. d The design of a database, including structure and relationships
14. c A snapshot of the database state at a specific time
15. a A request to obtain information from the database
16. d Sorting
17. c It handles queries for data retrieval and manipulation
18. d Banking transactions
19. c Converted phone interfaces to Web interfaces for database access
20. b They facilitate direct interaction with databases

10.2. Terminal Answers

Answer 1: A database represents some aspect of the real world, sometimes called the mini-world or
universe of discourse (UoD). (ii) A database is a logically coherent data collection with some inherent
meaning. (Refer to section 2 for more details)

Answer 2: DBMS is a general-purpose software system that facilitates the processes of defining,
constructing, manipulating, and sharing databases among various users and applications (Refer to
section 4 for details)

Unit: 1 - Introduction to DBMS 26

DCA1208: Database Management System

Answer 3: A database management system (DBMS) consists of several components. (Refer to

section 5.1)

Answer 4: List of representative applications of Databases: Banking, Airlines, Universities, Credit

card transactions, Telecommunication, etc. (Refer to section 5.3 for details.)

Answer 5: A database is a structured collection of related data stored electronically in a computer

system. (Refer to section 5.3 for details.)

Answer 6: The database approach's characteristics include data independence, efficient data access,
data integrity, and support for multiple users. (Refer to section 5.3 for details.)

Answer 7: A database schema defines the structure of a database, including tables, fields, and
relationships. In contrast, a database instance is a snapshot of the data stored in the database at a
particular moment. (Refer to section 5.3 for details.)

Answer 8: Metadata refers to data about the data stored in a database, including definitions,
constraints, and relationships. (Refer to section 5.3 for details.)

Answer 9: Data manipulation involves modifying the data stored in a database through operations
like insertion, deletion, and updating records. (Refer to section 5.3 for details.)

Answer 10: A data constraint is a rule defined on a database column that restricts the type or range
of data stored in that column. (Refer to section 5.3 for details.)

Unit: 1 - Introduction to DBMS 27

DCA1208: Database Management System

11. REFERENCES

• Fundamentals of Database Systems, Ramez Elmasri and Shamkant B. Navathe, 7th edition,
Pearson, 2016, ISBN-10: 0133970779.

• Database Management Systems, Raghu Ramakrishnan and Johannes Gehrke,3rd Edition,

McGraw-Hill Education,2002 (for the 3rd Edition), ISBN-13: 978-0072465631

• Database System Concepts, Abraham Silberschatz, Henry F. Korth, S. Sudarshan,7th Edition,

McGraw-Hill Education, 2019, ISBN-10: 0073523321

Unit: 1 - Introduction to DBMS 28