What command can be used to identify if a table is managed or unmanaged?

The command that can be used to identify if a table is managed or unmanaged is "DESCRIBE EXTENDED." This command provides detailed metadata about a specified table, including its storage location.

When using "DESCRIBE EXTENDED," you get vital information about the table's properties, including whether it is a managed table or an unmanaged (external) table. For managed tables, the data is stored in the metastore's default location, whereas unmanaged tables point to a location outside of the metastore's control, which can be specified during table creation. The command reveals an "Owner," "Location," and other metadata that indicate the type of table.

Other commands, like "SHOW TABLES," provide a list of tables available in a database but do not give specific metadata regarding whether a table is managed or unmanaged. "SELECT TABLE" and "LIST TABLES" also fall short of revealing the detailed characteristics necessary to ascertain the management type of the table. Thus, "DESCRIBE EXTENDED" is the most appropriate command for this purpose.