What characterizes a relational database?

A relational database is characterized by the structure of its data, which is organized in tables that consist of rows and columns. This format allows for efficient data retrieval and manipulation. Each table represents a distinct entity, and the links between these tables are established through common fields, or keys, that identify relationships among different data sets. This interconnectedness enables complex queries and enhances data integrity by reducing redundancy.

The reason that this arrangement is advantageous is that it allows users to easily relate data across different tables, making it possible to perform operations like joins to combine related information. This structured approach contrasts sharply with unstructured data storage, where data may reside in files without any particular organization, as suggested by other options. Additionally, a relational database does not limit storage to a single table and supports accessing multiple records simultaneously, which further underscores the benefits of its design.