File processing utilities: which systems software merges records from two files into one output file?

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: Utility program

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
Operating environments include utilities dedicated to data housekeeping—copying, sorting, and merging files. Recognizing the role of utilities helps classify common systems tasks versus application-specific logic.


Given Data / Assumptions:

  • Task: merge records from two files into one.
  • Context: systems-level data manipulation.
  • No networking or security-specific functions implied.


Concept / Approach:

  • Utility programs provide general-purpose operations such as sort, merge, backup, and compression.
  • Documentation systems manage manuals/specs; networking manages communication; security enforces policies.


Step-by-Step Solution:

Map task “merge records” to category → classic file utility function.Eliminate non-fitting categories (documentation, networking, security).


Verification / Alternative check:

Historical OS tools (e.g., sort/merge utilities) are standard examples of system utilities.


Why Other Options Are Wrong:

  • Documentation: Focuses on content authoring, not file merging logic.
  • Networking: Concerned with protocols/communication, not local record merging.
  • Security: Enforces access control, not record manipulation.
  • None: Incorrect; utilities do this job.


Common Pitfalls:

  • Confusing application-level data processing with OS-provided utilities—both can exist but category remains “utility”.


Final Answer:

Utility program

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