Knowledge encapsulation: What is the name of a computer program that contains the distilled expertise of a human specialist for problem solving?
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AExpert system
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BDatabase management system
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CManagement information system
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DArtificial intelligence (general umbrella)
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ENone of the above
Answer
Correct Answer: Expert system
Explanation
Introduction / Context:Expert systems encode the rules, heuristics, and domain facts used by specialists to make decisions. The question probes whether you can identify the proper term for software that delivers expert-level advice in a narrow domain.
Given Data / Assumptions:
- Program captures domain knowledge (rules and facts).
- Provides recommendations, diagnoses, or classifications.
- Often includes an inference engine and knowledge base.
Concept / Approach:An expert system is a classic AI application that emulates decision-making of human experts. It differs from general AI, from databases (which store but do not infer), and from MIS (which summarizes operations).
Step-by-Step Solution:
Recognize key phrase ‘‘distilled knowledge of an expert.’’Map to architecture: knowledge base + inference engine.Select ‘‘Expert system’’ as the precise label.Verification / Alternative check:Examples like MYCIN (medical) and XCON (configuration) confirm the definition and scope.
Why Other Options Are Wrong:
- DBMS stores data; it doesn’t reason.
- MIS produces periodic reports; not a reasoning engine.
- Artificial intelligence is an umbrella term; too broad for the described artifact.
Common Pitfalls:Assuming any smart program is an expert system; the distinguishing feature is explicit domain knowledge and rule-based inference.
Final Answer:Expert system