What is one potential impact of data redundancy on database efficiency?

Data redundancy refers to the unnecessary duplication of data within a database. This can significantly affect database efficiency by resulting in wasted storage space. When data is stored multiple times across different tables or records, it consumes additional disk space without providing any additional value. This redundant data may lead to inefficient use of resources, which could otherwise be used for essential data.

Moreover, managing duplicate data can complicate backup processes, slow down data retrieval due to increased volume, and hinder overall database performance. Addressing data redundancy often leads to a more streamlined database design, improving efficiency by minimizing the required storage and enhancing the speeds at which data can be accessed or processed. This understanding underlines why addressing redundancy is crucial for maintaining effective database management practices.