The B-tree is a widely used data structure that helps with searching through large sets of data. It has been around for over 40 years and is still favored by modern databases due to its efficiency in handling database queries. Contrary to popular belief, the B-tree is not the same as the Binary Search Tree (BST), although the two are related. The “B” in B-tree stands for “balanced,” as the tree is designed to remain balanced at all times. This balance is achieved through a self-balancing algorithm that ensures the tree maintains its optimal structure. By organizing data in a B-tree, databases can optimize sequential access and improve query performance. Despite the development of newer index structures, the B-tree’s ability to handle large data volumes on actual hardware has helped it maintain its relevance.
https://blog.allegro.tech/2023/11/how-does-btree-make-your-queries-fast.html