Multiple choice technology

When can RANDOM distribution be used?

  1. Large tables

  2. Small tables

  3. Any size tables

  4. None
Reveal answer Fill a bubble to check yourself
B Correct answer
Explanation

RANDOM distribution spreads data evenly but without logic, causing matching rows to be scattered across SPUs. This forces massive data movement during joins because related data isn't collocated. It's only acceptable for small tables (like dimension tables) where redistribution cost is minimal. Large tables should use hash or key distribution on join columns.

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