Yes ,we apply Max,MIn Function function on string and date date type.
In case of String data type-The functions Max ,Min, etc. use the lexicographic order when applied to text columns.
If Query is-
SELECT MAX(`type`) FROM 'Product`;
Output-
Printer
In PC and Laptop case: "P" symbol goes after "L" symbol(P>L) so MAX result is PC. Printer and PC: first letters are equal (P=P)but "r" symbol goes after "C"(r>c) so MAX result is Printer.
In case of Date data type-
Query-SELECT MAX(return_date) FROM `movies`;
Output-
25-06-2012
above query give latest date.
From your Table and query result is- 'F'