What type of database consists of a single table without relationships to other tables?

A flat file database is characterized by its structure, which consists of a single table that holds all the data without any relationships to other tables. In this type of database, all records are stored in a plain text file or a simple table format, making it easy to retrieve and manage data. The lack of relationships between data points simplifies the architecture but can also limit functionality and complexity when it comes to managing larger datasets or more intricate queries.

Relational databases, on the other hand, involve multiple tables and the establishment of relationships among them through keys, making them suitable for more complex data interactions. NoSQL databases can store data in various formats, such as key-value pairs or documents, and often allow for more flexible data organization than traditional databases, but do not necessarily fit the single-table definition. Hierarchical databases organize data in a tree-like structure, featuring parent-child relationships, which again contrasts with the single-table setup of a flat file database.