Definition check: Which statement best describes nonvolatile memory behavior with respect to power removal?

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:

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