Question

What is the primary difference between a database and a file system?

• A. Databases are slower than file systems for retrieving data
• B. Databases offer structured data and relationships, while file systems do not
• C. File systems support complex queries
• D. Both handle data similarly

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

The primary difference between a database and a file system is that databases offer structured data and relationships, while file systems do not.

(1) Databases are slower than file systems for retrieving data: This is generally incorrect. Databases are usually optimized for efficient data retrieval, especially for complex queries. File systems can be faster for very simple operations but are less efficient for complex data handling.

(2) Databases offer structured data and relationships, while file systems do not: This is the primary difference. Databases enforce a structure (schema) and allow relationships between data, enabling more organized storage and efficient querying. File systems treat data as unstructured blobs, without inherent relationships.

(3) File systems can support complex queries, unlike databases: This is incorrect. Databases are designed to support complex queries through languages like SQL, while file systems have limited querying capabilities.

(4) Both databases and file systems handle data in the same way: This is incorrect. They have fundamental differences in how they structure, store, and manage data.

Therefore, the primary difference is (2) Databases offer structured data and relationships, while file systems do not.