In a PostgreSQL database, the main difference between a primary key and a unique key lies in their intended functions and constraints.
Primary Key in PostgreSQL Database
A primary key is a column or a set of columns that uniquely identifies each row in a table. It enforces the uniqueness of values and ensures that every row has a unique identifier. A primary key column cannot contain NULL values and only one primary key constraint can be defined for each table. Additionally, a primary key automatically creates a unique index on the specified column(s).
Unique Key in PostgreSQL Database
A unique key constraint in PostgreSQL also ensures the uniqueness of values within a column or a set of columns. However, unlike a primary key, a unique key allows NULL values. This means that multiple rows can have NULL values in columns under a unique key constraint. A table can have multiple unique key constraints defined, but each constraint must have a unique name within the table.
In summary, a primary key uniquely identifies each row in a table and does not allow NULL values, while a unique key constraint also enforces uniqueness but permits NULL values.
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