ROM acronym — verify the expansion: “ROM stands for read-only memory.” Is this standard definition correct in digital electronics?

Introduction / Context:
ROM is one of the earliest forms of nonvolatile memory discussed in digital systems. Although modern devices blur the lines with reprogrammable variants, the canonical expansion of the acronym remains widely taught and used. This question asks you to confirm the standard expansion of ROM.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Common memory taxonomy in computer architecture and digital design.
• ROM family includes mask ROM, PROM, EPROM, EEPROM, and Flash (with varying reprogrammability).
• Focus is on the acronym’s expansion, not on mutability across subtypes.

Concept / Approach:
ROM stands for “read-only memory.” Historically, mask ROM was written at fabrication and readable thereafter. PROMs could be programmed once; EPROMs and EEPROM/Flash add erasability and rewrite capability, yet all descend from the ROM concept of nonvolatile storage primarily read during normal system operation. Accordingly, the acronym’s expansion is correct even if the practical mutability differs among subtypes.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:
Introductory textbooks and component datasheets use “ROM: Read-Only Memory” as the standard acronym expansion, regardless of subfamily specifics.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• Incorrect: Contradicts the well-established acronym expansion.
• Only correct for mask ROM / historical contexts: Overly restrictive; the acronym expansion remains the same across the broader family.

Common Pitfalls:
Assuming “read-only” means “never writable under any circumstance”; many ROM subtypes are writable during programming phases but read-only in normal system operation modes.

Final Answer:
Correct — ROM expands to Read-Only Memory.