Alteryx Foundation Micro-Credential Practice Exam

What types of data can BLOBs typically store?

1. Numerical and categorical data

2. Large binary files such as images or videos

3. Simple text and numbers

4. Only textual data

The correct answer is: Large binary files such as images or videos

BLOBs, which stands for Binary Large Objects, are designed to store large amounts of binary data that do not conform to the traditional structure of a database table. This makes them particularly well-suited for storing large binary files, such as images, audio files, video clips, or any other unstructured binary data. The primary characteristic of BLOBs is their ability to hold significant volumes of data in a binary format. Unlike numerical or categorical data, which are structured and easily stored in traditional data types, BLOBs are ideal for handling content that is often too large or complex to fit into these conventional formats. This feature allows for the efficient storage and retrieval of multimedia files in database systems. The other options pertain to data types that do not align with the purpose of BLOBs. Numerical and categorical data are better managed through structured formats within the database, while simple text and numbers can also be stored in standard data types. Textual data, on the other hand, typically uses VARCHAR or CHAR data types that are specifically designed to handle strings rather than the bulk storage offered by BLOBs.