What are flat files?

Flat files are a type of data storage that involves a simple format where data is stored in one single layer or level, rather than being organized into related tables like in a relational database. The correct answer indicates that flat files are essentially computer files that store database information.

These files typically consist of plain text where each line might represent a single record, and fields in that record are separated by delimiters such as commas or tabs. This simplicity allows for straightforward storage and retrieval of data, but it lacks the more complex structure and relationships that database tables provide.

In contrast to the other options, the alternative answers represent different concepts. Structured database tables involve multiple related data tables and employ complex relationships and integrity constraints, which are not features of flat files. Files containing executable code refer to programs or scripts used for execution rather than data storage. As for data files optimized for speed, while some flat files can be designed for efficiency, the term "flat file" itself does not imply optimization for speed—it simply describes the file structure.