What is the purpose of the setFetchSize() method in JDBC?

a) To set the maximum number of rows returned by a query

b) To set the number of rows fetched at a time from the database

c) To set the size of the database buffer

d) To set the number of connections in the connection pool

Answer:

b) To set the number of rows fetched at a time from the database

Explanation:

The setFetchSize() method in JDBC is used to set the number of rows fetched at a time from the database. This method allows developers to control the fetch size, which can improve performance when working with large result sets. By fetching a specific number of rows at a time, the application can reduce the amount of memory used and manage database interactions more efficiently.

Setting an appropriate fetch size is particularly important in scenarios where the result set is very large, as it allows the application to process the data in smaller, more manageable chunks. This can lead to better performance, especially in environments with limited memory or when processing data over a network connection.

Understanding how to use setFetchSize() effectively is crucial for optimizing the performance of database operations in Java applications. It provides a simple yet powerful tool for managing the flow of data between the application and the database, ensuring that resources are used efficiently and that the application remains responsive.