How can normalizing a database structure improve PHP application performance and simplify data retrieval?

Normalizing a database structure can improve PHP application performance and simplify data retrieval by reducing data redundancy, improving data integrity, and making it easier to query and retrieve specific information. This can lead to faster query execution times and more efficient use of resources.

// Example of normalizing a database structure
// Before normalization
// Table: users
// user_id | username | email | address

// After normalization
// Table: users
// user_id | username | email

// Table: addresses
// address_id | user_id | address