Chapter 1
Databases and Database Users

Review Questions
1.1. Define the following terms: data, database, DBMS, database system, database catalog, program-data independence, user view, DBA, end user, canned transaction, deductive database system, persistent object, meta-data, and transaction-processing application.
Answer:
Data: Facts that can be recorded and that have implicit meaning
Database: Collection of related data
DBMS: Collection of programs that enables users to create and maintain a database (Software)
Database system: database and DBMS software together
Database catalog: structure of data files is stored
Program-data independence: property that properties that DBMS access programs do not require such changes in most cases. The structure of data files is stored in the DBMS catalog separately from the access programs.
User view:
DBA: assisted by a staff that carries out these functions
End user: the people whose jobs require access to the database for querying, updating, and generating reports; the database primarily exists for their use
Canned transaction: that have been carefully programmed and tested
Deductive database system: database systems provide capabilities for defining deduction rules for inferencing new information from the stored database facts
Persistent object:
Meta-data: The information stored in the catalog
Transaction-processing application:
1.2. What four main types of actions involve databases? Briefly discuss each.
Answer: hierarchical systems, network model based systems, inverted file systems and Database system.
1.3. Discuss the main characteristics of the database approach and how it differs from traditional file systems.
Answer:
■ Self-describing nature of a database system
■ Insulation between programs and data, and data abstraction
■ Support of multiple views of the data
■ Sharing of data and