Database normalization is a systematic approach to organizing data in a database to minimize redundancy and ensure data integrity. It involves applying a series of rules, known as normal forms, from 1NF to 5NF, to structure data efficiently. This process helps in preventing data anomalies and maintaining referential integrity. Advanced stages like BCNF and 5NF further optimize the database structure, balancing the need for data consistency with query performance.
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Database normalization is the process of organizing data to reduce redundancy and improve data integrity
Dr. Edgar F. Codd developed the concept of database normalization to structure data into tables according to a series of rules known as normal forms
Normal forms, from 1NF to 5NF, systematically eliminate redundant data and potential anomalies to ensure data consistency and reliability
Functional dependency is a key concept in database normalization where the value of one attribute uniquely determines the value of another
Transitive dependency can lead to indirect relationships that complicate data structure and is addressed in normalization through decomposition and synthesis
Relational schema is used in normalization to organize data based on functional dependencies and relationships
1NF mandates that all attributes be indivisible
2NF requires that all non-key attributes be fully functionally dependent on the primary key alone
3NF involves removing transitive dependencies to further reduce redundancy and anomalies
Advanced normal forms, such as BCNF, 4NF, and 5NF, are applied to resolve intricate dependencies and refine the database structure
Denormalization may reintroduce some redundancy to improve database performance, but it is a trade-off with data consistency
A hybrid approach, using both normalization and denormalization, is often used to balance data integrity and performance optimization