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Guilherme Mazui

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What is the Difference Between View and Table?

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The main difference between a view and a table in SQL lies in the data storage and retrieval:

  • Table: A table is a database entity that stores data in the form of rows and columns. It is a physical data structure that occupies space on the system and contains actual data.
  • View: A view is a virtual table derived from the result set of an SQL query. It does not store data itself but rather provides a "window" through which data from one or more tables can be viewed or manipulated. Views are stored as a SELECT statement in the data dictionary and do not occupy space on the system.

Key differences between views and tables include:

  1. Data storage: Tables store data, while views are virtual and do not store data.
  2. Data retrieval: Views are formed based on the result set of an SQL query and can be used to manipulate the data in the underlying tables.
  3. Performance: Views can provide an additional level of abstraction and security, as they can limit access to certain rows or columns of the underlying table. However, they can also introduce additional overhead when querying the view, as the view's underlying query must be executed.
  4. Space occupation: Tables occupy space on the system, while views do not.

In summary, a table is a physical data structure that stores data, while a view is a virtual table derived from the result set of an SQL query and does not store data. Views can be used to manipulate or filter data from the underlying tables, providing an additional level of abstraction and security. However, they can also introduce additional overhead when querying the view.

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  • What is the Difference Between View and Table?
  • Comparative Table: View vs Table

    • Comparative Table: View vs Table

    Here is a table comparing the differences between a view and a table:

    Feature View Table
    Definition A view is a virtual table that consists of rows and columns, derived from the result set of an SQL statement. A table is a database instance that consists of fields (columns) and rows, and stores data.
    Data Storage Views do not store data themselves; they derive their data from the underlying tables (referred to as the base table of the view). Tables store data in the database and contain rows and columns with actual data.
    Modification Modifications through a view (e.g., insert, update, delete) are not permitted. Modifications can be made directly to the table.
    Space Occupation Views do not occupy any space on the system as they do not store data. Tables occupy space on the system as they store data.
    Creation Syntax To create a view, the syntax is: Create view <view_name> as <SQL query>. To create a table, the syntax is: Create table <table_name> (<column list> <data_type>).
    Accessibility Views can be used to provide limited access to specific parts of a table or gather data from various tables. Tables can be accessed and modified directly.

    In summary, a view is a virtual table that does not store data itself but rather derives its data from underlying tables. It can be used to manipulate or gather data from various tables, but does not permit direct modifications. On the other hand, a table is a database object that stores data in rows and columns, and allows for direct modifications.

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    Guilherme Mazui

    Guilherme Mazui is graduated in journalism from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) and a master's degree in Communication from the University of São Paulo (USP). In addition, he has experience in advertising writing and has worked as a content editor in several companies.