OCR GCSE Computer Science Complete Practice Exam 2025

The function of relational databases compared to flat file databases primarily revolves around the concept of normalization, which is a process that organizes data to reduce redundancy and improve data integrity. Relational databases use structured tables to establish relationships between different types of data, allowing for efficient data management and retrieval. By organizing data in this way, they minimize duplication, ensuring that each piece of information is stored in one place, thereby reducing the chances of inconsistencies and errors.

Flat file databases, on the other hand, typically store data in a single table without establishing these relationships, which can lead to significant data redundancy. For instance, if multiple entries need the same data, such as customer information, in a flat file system, that information must be repeated for each entry, thereby wasting space and increasing the likelihood of discrepancies.

This ability of relational databases to effectively manage data relationships and minimize redundancy is a critical advantage that enhances data integrity and efficiency compared to more simplistic flat file structures.