Which constraint enforces value rules such as minimum, maximum, or a specified set of values?

Prepare for success in your database systems exam with our comprehensive study tools. Use flashcards and multiple choice questions, with detailed hints and explanations. Ace your exam with confidence!

Multiple Choice

Which constraint enforces value rules such as minimum, maximum, or a specified set of values?

Explanation:
A check constraint enforces value rules by evaluating a condition on the data in a column for every row. This is how you express minimum or maximum limits or membership in a specific set, such as CHECK (age >= 0 AND age <= 120) or CHECK (status IN ('active','inactive','pending')). When a row is inserted or updated, the database checks that the condition is true; if not, the operation is rejected. By contrast, a unique constraint ensures all values in a column are distinct, a not null constraint requires a value to be present (not NULL), and a primary key constraint combines uniqueness with not null to identify each row.

A check constraint enforces value rules by evaluating a condition on the data in a column for every row. This is how you express minimum or maximum limits or membership in a specific set, such as CHECK (age >= 0 AND age <= 120) or CHECK (status IN ('active','inactive','pending')). When a row is inserted or updated, the database checks that the condition is true; if not, the operation is rejected. By contrast, a unique constraint ensures all values in a column are distinct, a not null constraint requires a value to be present (not NULL), and a primary key constraint combines uniqueness with not null to identify each row.

Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy