Storage media classification — Evaluate the statement: "An optical disk is an example of magnetic storage."

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: Incorrect

Explanation:


Introduction:
Storage media are broadly categorized by their physical recording mechanisms. Magnetic storage (hard disks, tapes) encodes information using magnetic domains, while optical storage (CD, DVD, Blu-ray) uses pits and lands read by lasers. The prompt asks whether an optical disk is an example of magnetic storage, which tests understanding of these mechanisms.

Given Data / Assumptions:

  • Optical disks: CD/DVD/Blu-ray use optical reflectivity changes.
  • Magnetic media: HDDs, tapes use magnetization direction changes.
  • Hybrid media like magneto-optical exist but are distinct devices.


Concept / Approach:
Optical disks store data as physical or phase-change features that alter reflectivity. A laser detects the differences to reconstruct bits. No magnetic field changes are used in standard optical formats. Therefore an optical disk is not a magnetic storage device. Magneto-optical disks are a separate technology combining magnetic fields with laser heating, but the general term "optical disk" refers to purely optical schemes in mainstream products.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Identify recording principle: optical reflectivity/phase change vs magnetic orientation.Map examples: CD-R/RW, DVD-R/RW, BD-RE are optical; HDD is magnetic.Conclude that an optical disk is not magnetic storage.


Verification / Alternative check:

Product documentation and standards describe laser wavelengths and reflectivity thresholds, not coercivity or magnetic remanence, for optical disks.


Why Other Options Are Wrong:

Correct: Would conflate optical with magnetic mechanisms.True only for magneto-optical disks: MO is a specialized category, not the generic optical disk referenced.Depends on laser wavelength: Wavelength affects density, not whether the storage is magnetic.


Common Pitfalls:

Assuming all removable disks are magnetic like floppy disks.Confusing optical pickup assemblies with magnetic read/write heads.


Final Answer:

Incorrect

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