Salesforce Platform Developer Practice Exam

Which of the following options is valid in the where clause of a SOQL query?

1. A geolocation field.

2. An encrypted field.

3. An aggregate function.

4. An alias notation.

The correct answer is: A geolocation field.

In a SOQL (Salesforce Object Query Language) query, the use of geolocation fields in the where clause is valid because these fields can be utilized for filtering records based on their geographic location. When querying records with geolocation fields, you can use specific functions to filter data, such as checking if the location is within a certain distance from a point. This capability allows you to efficiently retrieve records that meet geographic criteria, which is particularly useful in applications that require mapping or location-based services. The other options present limitations or specific use cases that do not generally apply in the where clause. For instance, while encrypted fields can be queried, they cannot be referenced for filtering in the where clause due to their sensitive nature. Aggregate functions are designed for retrieving summarized data, making them inappropriate for direct use in the where clause, which focuses on filtering records. Alias notation has its own specific use, typically in the select part of a SOQL query for simpler reference but is not applicable in where conditions. Thus, utilizing geolocation fields in the where clause stands out as a valid and effective option for filtering results in SOQL queries.