Question

A(n) __________ is a complete set of data about a single item and is made up of __________.

Short answer

Answer: A complete set of data about a single item is called a "record" and its components are named "fields."

Step-by-step solution

Fill in the first blank: Term for a complete set of data about a single item

The term we are looking for is "record."

Fill in the second blank: Term for components that make up a record

The term we are looking for is "fields." So, the complete statement is: A(n) record is a complete set of data about a single item and is made up of fields.

Key concepts

Data Structures

In the realm of computer science, data structures are essential for organizing, managing, and storing data efficiently. They are different ways in which we can arrange data on a computer so that it can be used effectively. Common examples of data structures include arrays, linked lists, stacks, queues, trees, and graphs. Each structure comes with its own set of rules for accessing and storing data, which can be chosen based on the requirements of the application at hand.

Understanding the right data structure to employ for a specific situation can significantly enhance the performance and efficiency of a computer program. For instance, in managing database records, arrays or linked lists could be applied to store the records linearly, while more complex data like relational tables or trees might be utilized for organizing hierarchical or relational data.

Fields in Databases

Fields in databases are fundamental components that define the structure of a database record. Each field, sometimes referred to as a column, holds a specific piece of information. For instance, in a database containing records of books, there might be separate fields for 'Title', 'Author', 'ISBN', and 'Publication Year'.

A field has a defined data type, which could be integer, string, date, etc., specifying the nature of information it can store. A field dedicated to the 'Publication Year' would typically be of an integer data type to store numerical values representing a year. The careful design of fields within a database is crucial since it determines not only what kind of information can be stored but also how it can be retrieved and manipulated.

Information Storage

Information storage is a broad term that refers to the methods and technologies used to keep data in a form that is readable by a computer. In databases, information storage is meticulously planned to ensure that data is stored in an organized, efficient manner that allows for easy retrieval, update, and management. The manner in which information is stored can greatly affect the speed and performance of database queries, the security of the data, and its integrity.

Information can be stored on various media types such as hard drives, solid-state drives, or even remotely via cloud storage services. The choice of storage medium can depend on the required access speed, data volume, and security considerations. Efficient information storage practices are vital for maintaining the reliability of database systems, and new technologies continue to develop that improve the speed, capacity, and cost-effectiveness of data storage.