What does the selection operation in a database do?

The selection operation in a database is fundamentally about retrieving specific data that meets certain criteria from a table. This operation allows users to create a new subset of data from existing rows based on the conditions set forth in the query. When you perform a selection, you are essentially extracting records that satisfy the specified conditions, which results in a new set of data that can be utilized for further analysis or reporting.

In the context of this question, the correct choice emphasizes that the selection operation results in the creation of a new table or dataset comprised of only the rows that match the selection criteria. This action does not affect the original table but rather provides a focused view of the data that users need for their tasks.

Other operations in a database serve different purposes, such as merging tables or updating records, which highlight the distinct functions of database operations outside of the selection context. For example, merging involves combining data from multiple tables, which is not related to simply selecting particular rows. Similarly, removing duplicate fields is concerned with data normalization and ensuring data integrity rather than the act of retrieving specified data. Updating records is about modifying existing data entries, further distinguishing it from the selection operation.