What type of database is primarily designed for handling transactions?

• A. Graph database
• B. Relational database
• C. Document database
• D. Column-store database

Answer: (B)

A relational database is primarily designed for handling transactions due to its structured nature and adherence to ACID (Atomicity, Consistency, Isolation, Durability) properties. These properties ensure that transactions are processed reliably and maintain the integrity of the database even in the event of errors, power failures, or other unexpected issues.

Relational databases use structured query language (SQL) for data manipulation, allowing for the precise handling of transactions that involve multiple operations. This makes them ideal for applications where data integrity and consistency are paramount, such as in banking systems, e-commerce platforms, and other transaction-heavy environments.

In contrast, graph databases are optimized for relationships and connections among data points, making them more suitable for social networks or recommendation systems. Document databases are designed to store, retrieve, and manage semi-structured data, providing flexibility for unstructured data but may lack the strict transactional control found in relational databases. Column-store databases are optimized for read-heavy analytical queries and are typically used for big data applications rather than transaction processing.