In software classification, which of the following is an example of system software rather than application software or hardware?

Introduction / Context:
Software on a computer is often divided into two major categories: system software and application software. System software provides a platform for other software and manages hardware resources, while application software helps users perform specific tasks. This question checks if you can correctly identify which option represents system software, distinguishing it from application programs and physical hardware components like RAM.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• System software includes operating systems, device drivers and similar low level programs.
• Application software includes programs like word processors, calculators and web browsers.
• RAM is hardware, not software.
• The question asks specifically for an example of system software.

Concept / Approach:
System software is the layer of software that communicates directly with hardware and provides services to application programs. The most important example is the operating system (such as Windows, Linux or macOS), which manages processes, memory, files and devices. Microsoft Word, calculator utilities and web browsers are application programs that run on top of the operating system to perform user oriented tasks. RAM is a hardware component that stores data temporarily; it is not software at all. Therefore, the only option that fits the definition of system software is the operating system that manages hardware and software resources.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:
Computer fundamentals texts define system software as programs that directly control the operation of the computer and provide a foundation for application programs. They list operating systems, language translators and device drivers as key examples. Application software is defined as programs written to perform specific tasks for users, such as word processing, spreadsheets, browsers and games. Hardware chapters describe RAM as a physical memory module, not a program. These definitions and lists align perfectly with the choice of operating system as system software and rule out the other options as either application software or hardware.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• Microsoft Word word-processing program: An application software used for creating and editing documents.
• Calculator utility used for simple arithmetic: A small application program, even if it is bundled with the operating system.
• RAM (Random Access Memory) module installed in the computer: A hardware component, not software.
• Web browser used to view websites: Application software that relies on system software to access network and display content.

Common Pitfalls:
Some learners think that any built in utility that comes with the operating system must be system software, but in classification terms, those utilities are still application programs. Another confusion is treating RAM or other hardware components as software because they are discussed in the same context. To answer questions correctly, keep in mind that system software refers to software that manages the computer as a whole, and the most important example is the operating system, which controls hardware and supports applications.

Final Answer:
An example of system software is the Operating system that manages hardware and software resources on the computer.