Final answer:
If BitLocker's startup key is stored in the laptop's TPM chip, the laptop can boot without manually providing the startup key as the TPM secures and automates the process.
Step-by-step explanation:
If you decide to use BitLocker as your whole disk encryption solution for the hard drive on your laptop, and you store the startup key in the laptop's TPM chip, you can boot the hard drive without providing the startup key. This is because the TPM chip securely stores the encryption keys and ensures that it is the original, unaltered system that is booting. So, the correct answer is: you can boot the hard drive without providing the startup key. Storing the key in the TPM enables the system to check the integrity of the boot process and unlock the hard drive automatically if everything is verified.
If you store the startup key required to unlock the hard drive in the TPM chip, you will be prompted to provide the startup key before booting the hard drive. This means that you will need to enter the startup key manually each time you start your laptop. The startup key is securely stored in the TPM chip, and it will not be accessible to anyone unless they have physical access to your laptop.