NECO Data Processing Past Questions And Answers (Objective and Theory)
Section A: Data Processing Questions
What is the purpose of data profiling in the context of data processing?
A) Identifying patterns and trends in data
B) Cleaning and transforming data
C) Analyzing data quality and structure
D) Encrypting sensitive data
Answer: C) Analyzing data quality and structure
In data processing, what is the difference between data warehousing and data mining?
A) Data warehousing focuses on storage, while data mining extracts insights.
B) Data warehousing involves real-time processing, while data mining deals with historical data.
C) Data warehousing is for structured data, and data mining is for unstructured data.
D) Data warehousing and data mining are interchangeable terms.
Answer: A) Data warehousing focuses on storage, while data mining extracts insights.
How does a data breach impact data processing and the organization?
A) Improves data security measures
B) Enhances data processing efficiency
C) Jeopardizes data confidentiality and integrity
D) Facilitates data sharing across networks
Answer: C) Jeopardizes data confidentiality and integrity
What role does metadata play in effective data processing?
A) Storing raw data
B) Describing data characteristics and relationships
C) Processing real-time data
D) Encrypting sensitive information
Answer: B) Describing data characteristics and relationships
Explain the concept of data sharding in distributed databases and its benefits.
A) Dividing large databases into smaller, more manageable parts for improved scalability and performance.
B) Encrypting data for secure transmission
C) Merging multiple databases into a single entity
D) Enhancing data compression techniques
Answer: A) Dividing large databases into smaller, more manageable parts for improved scalability and performance.
Section B: Theory Questions
Discuss the trade-offs between using a relational database and a NoSQL database in data processing scenarios.
Answer: Relational databases provide structured data storage with strong consistency, while NoSQL databases offer flexibility and scalability, sacrificing some consistency for improved performance and handling unstructured data. The choice depends on specific application requirements.
Elaborate on the concept of data normalization and its importance in database design.
Answer: Data normalization is the process of organizing data in a database to reduce redundancy and dependency. It minimizes data anomalies and improves data integrity by ensuring that each data attribute is stored in only one place.
What is the role of indexing in database performance optimization, and how does it impact data processing?
Answer: Indexing enhances database query performance by providing a structured mechanism for rapid data retrieval. It creates a reference point, reducing the time required to locate specific records and significantly improving overall data processing efficiency.
Explain the concept of a distributed ledger and its relevance to data processing.
Answer: A distributed ledger is a decentralized database that is shared and synchronized across multiple locations or participants. It ensures transparency, security, and reliability in data processing, particularly in scenarios like blockchain technology.
How does data anonymization contribute to privacy and compliance in data processing?
Answer: Data anonymization involves removing or altering personally identifiable information from datasets to protect individuals’ privacy. It helps organizations comply with data protection regulations and ethical standards during data processing activities.
