What is SQL primarily used for in the context of relational databases?

Primary purpose: SQL is used to create, query, update, and manage relational databases.

• Define and modify database structure (Data Definition Language): CREATE, ALTER, DROP.

• Insert, update, delete, and retrieve data (Data Manipulation Language): INSERT, UPDATE, DELETE, SELECT.

• Manage access and permissions (Data Control Language) and handle transactions (Transaction Control Language).

Example commands:

1. SELECT to query data, e.g., SELECT name FROM employees WHERE department = 'Sales';

2. INSERT to add rows, e.g., INSERT INTO employees (name, department) VALUES ('Alex', 'Sales');

3. CREATE TABLE to define tables and schema.

Note: While SQL provides the data, displaying or formatting that data for web pages or printed reports is handled by application code or reporting tools.