Oracle Database 11g: Program with PL/SQL — Question 41

In which of the following scenarios would you recommend using associative arrays?

Answer options

• A. When you want to retrieve an entire row from a table and perform calculations
• B. When you know the number of elements in advance and the elements are usually accessed sequentially
• C. When you want to create a separate lookup table with multiple entries for each row of the main table, and access it through join queries
• D. When you want to create a relatively small lookup table, where the collection can be constructed on memory each time a subprogram is invoked.

Correct answer: D

Explanation

The correct answer is D because associative arrays are ideal for situations where the data structure is small and can be recreated in memory as needed. Option A is inappropriate as it involves full row retrieval, which is not the primary function of associative arrays. Option B suggests sequential access, which is more suited to regular arrays. Option C involves complex relationships and multiple entries, which do not align with the use case for associative arrays.