1. Database system architecture can be divided into 1-tier, 2-tier, or 3-tier. 3-tier is most widely used and separates components based on user complexity and data use.
2. A database system has three main components - storage manager, query processor, and database users/administrators. The storage manager stores, retrieves, and updates data using various sub-components.
3. The query processor interprets queries and evaluates them against the database. Database users include programmers, analysts, specialized application users, and basic users. The database administrator controls the system and ensures security, backups, and performance.