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Improve Proximity Searches with a GiST Index on coordinates


Create a GiST Index on a Point Column

Write a PostgreSQL query to create a GiST index on the "coordinates" column in the Landmarks table, where coordinates are stored as points.

Solution:

-- Create a GiST index on the "coordinates" column.
CREATE INDEX idx_landmarks_coordinates ON Landmarks USING gist (coordinates);

Explanation:

  • Purpose of the Query:
    • To optimize spatial queries involving point data, such as finding nearby landmarks.
    • This exercise shows how to implement a GiST index on point-type columns.
  • Key Components:
    • USING gist declares the index type as GiST.
    • (coordinates) specifies the column containing spatial point data.
  • Real-World Application:
    • Useful in geographic information systems (GIS) and location-based service applications.

Notes:

  • GiST indexes are highly flexible for spatial data queries.
  • They enable efficient retrieval of data based on geometric proximity.

For more Practice: Solve these Related Problems:

  • Write a PostgreSQL query to create a GiST index on the "coordinates" column in the "Landmarks" table.
  • Write a PostgreSQL query to create a GiST index on the "position" column in the "Sensors" table.
  • Write a PostgreSQL query to create a GiST index on the "center" column in the "CityCenters" table.
  • Write a PostgreSQL query to create a GiST index on the "geo_point" column in the "DeliveryPoints" table.


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Previous PostgreSQL Exercise: GiST Index on location in Stores.
Next PostgreSQL Exercise: Unique B-tree Index on email in Users.

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