What type of database is characterized by its ability to relate data across multiple tables?

A relational database management system (RDBMS) is characterized by its ability to connect and relate data across multiple tables through the use of keys and relationships. In an RDBMS, data is organized into tables consisting of rows and columns, where each row represents a unique record, and each column corresponds to a specific attribute of the data.

The primary feature that distinguishes a relational database is the use of foreign keys to link tables together, allowing for complex queries that retrieve and manipulate data from different tables simultaneously. This feature enables users to perform operations such as joins, which are crucial for analyzing data that resides in more than one table, thereby enhancing data integrity and reducing redundancy.

Furthermore, RDBMSs support SQL (Structured Query Language), which is a powerful tool for querying the database, adding another layer of ease when working with interconnected data. Their design promotes flexibility and efficiency in managing relationships among diverse data entities, making them a popular choice for many applications, from small databases to extensive enterprise systems.