Which operation is primarily used to retrieve specific data from a relational table?

The operation that is primarily used to retrieve specific data from a relational table is the "Select" operation. In the context of databases, the Select statement allows users to specify which columns of data they want to see and to filter the rows based on certain criteria. This is essential for querying databases effectively, as it enables users to retrieve only the information that is relevant to their needs, rather than returning the entire table content.

Selecting specific records can involve various conditions, such as matching certain values or ranges, which enhances the ability to pinpoint exactly what data is required. This function is fundamental to the use of relational databases, as it empowers users to interact with the data dynamically and tailor the results accordingly.