What is the difference between SQL and PL/SQL?

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Answer:

SQL (Structured Query Language) and PL/SQL (Procedural Language/Structured Query Language) are both used in the context of managing and manipulating databases, but they serve different purposes and have distinct characteristics:

  1. SQL (Structured Query Language):

    • SQL is a domain-specific language primarily used for querying and manipulating relational databases.
    • It is used to retrieve, insert, update, and delete data in a database.
    • SQL statements are declarative in nature, meaning you specify what you want to do with the data, and the database management system (DBMS) figures out how to perform the operation.
    • Common SQL commands include SELECT, INSERT, UPDATE, DELETE, JOIN, and GROUP BY.
  2. PL/SQL (Procedural Language/Structured Query Language):

    • PL/SQL is an extension of SQL that allows you to write procedural code within the database.
    • It is used to create and manage programmatic constructs like stored procedures, functions, triggers, and packages within a database.
    • PL/SQL enables you to write more complex logic, control structures (such as loops and conditionals), and error handling directly in the database.
    • Unlike SQL, PL/SQL is a full programming language with procedural capabilities.
    • PL/SQL programs are executed on the database server, reducing the need for data to be transferred between the client and the server.

In summary, SQL is primarily focused on data manipulation and retrieval, while PL/SQL extends SQL by adding procedural constructs for creating complex logic and operations that can be executed within the database itself. PL/SQL is particularly useful for building applications with business logic that needs to interact closely with the database, and it enhances the performance and security of database operations.


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