Final answer:
A set of information describing the contents, format, and structure of data artifacts is known as metadata or a data dictionary, providing crucial information for the use and management of the data.
Step-by-step explanation:
A set of information describing the contents, format, and structure of the data artifacts is typically referred to as metadata or a data dictionary in the context of computer science and information systems. This encompasses a detailed account of the data's nature, its organization, and how it is to be interpreted. For example, in a database system, metadata will include descriptions of the tables, fields, data types, relationships between the tables, and other constraints that define how data is stored and accessed.
When it comes to physical artifacts in engineering, a comparable set of information might include the shapes and dimensions of all physical components, as well as detailed schematic diagrams of electrical subsystems and computer code for any embedded systems. These details are crucial for anyone who needs to understand, replicate, manage, or use the data artifact effectively, be it a product or a record in a database.
Metadata serves as a guide, helping to ensure that data can be used correctly and efficiently. For instance, in academic contexts, metadata for research data may include a list of authors, compilers, editors, publishers, associated publications, URLs, and other information necessary for proper citation in bibliographies and reference lists.