Definition check: Which statement best describes nonvolatile memory behavior with respect to power removal?
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Amemory that retains stored information when electrical power is removed
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Bmemory that loses stored information when electrical power is removed
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Cmagnetic memory
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Dnonmagnetic memory
Answer
Correct Answer: memory that retains stored information when electrical power is removed
Explanation
Introduction / Context:Nonvolatile memories preserve data even after power-off and are vital for firmware, configuration, and logging. Recognizing this definition differentiates them from volatile memories used for temporary working storage.
Given Data / Assumptions:
- Focus on retention behavior on power loss.
- Technology examples include EEPROM, Flash, mask ROM, FRAM, and MRAM.
- Volatile memories include SRAM and DRAM.
Concept / Approach:“Nonvolatile” explicitly refers to data retention without applied power. The underlying physical mechanism may be floating-gate charge (Flash/EEPROM), ferroelectric polarization (FRAM), or magnetic orientation (MRAM), but the common trait is persistence after shutdown.
Step-by-Step Solution:
Identify property of interest: data retention with power removed.Match to term “nonvolatile” → retains data.Therefore select the option that states retention on power loss.Verification / Alternative check:System behavior confirms: firmware stored in Flash remains after power cycles; RAM contents do not unless battery-backed.
Why Other Options Are Wrong:
- Loses information: That defines volatile memory.
- Magnetic/nonmagnetic: These are implementation types, not definitions of volatility.
Common Pitfalls:Assuming battery-backed SRAM is “nonvolatile”; it is volatile but externally maintained.
Final Answer:memory that retains stored information when electrical power is removed