Data Manipulation Language (DML)

Data Manipulation Language (DML) is a programming language used in application programs to request data from the database management system (DBMS). It allows users to retrieve, insert, update, and delete data in the database.

DML is primarily used for performing operations on the data stored in the database tables. It provides a set of commands that enable users to manipulate the data in a structured manner. These commands are executed by the DBMS to retrieve or modify the data as per the user's requirements.

Functions of DML:
DML performs the following functions in an application program:

1. Retrieval: DML commands, such as SELECT, are used to retrieve data from one or more database tables. It allows users to specify the conditions for data retrieval, sort the retrieved data, and limit the number of rows returned.

2. Insertion: DML commands, such as INSERT, are used to add new data records into the database tables. Users can specify the values for each column in the new record, and the DBMS will insert it into the appropriate table.

3. Modification: DML commands, such as UPDATE, are used to modify existing data records in the database tables. Users can specify the columns and values to be updated, as well as the conditions that determine which records should be modified.

4. Deletion: DML commands, such as DELETE, are used to remove data records from the database tables. Users can specify the conditions that determine which records should be deleted.

Advantages of DML:
- DML provides a simple and intuitive way to interact with the database.
- It allows users to perform complex queries and retrieve specific data subsets.
- DML commands can be embedded within application programs to automate data manipulation tasks.
- It ensures data integrity and consistency by enforcing constraints and rules defined in the database schema.

In conclusion, Data Manipulation Language (DML) is used in application programs to request data from the database management system. It provides commands for retrieving, inserting, updating, and deleting data in a structured manner. DML is essential for interacting with the database and performing various data manipulation operations.