Final answer:
The small portable device used for backing up data mentioned is known as a flash drive. These storage devices are convenient and portable, allowing users to easily transfer and backup files, such as photos from digital cameras. Option a is the answer.
Step-by-step explanation:
The small portable device used for backing up data is known as a flash drive. A flash drive, which can also be referred to as a USB drive, thumb drive, or pen drive, is a compact, removable storage device that connects to a computer's USB port. Users can easily carry a flash drive due to its small size and use it to store, transfer, and back up various types of data, from documents to photos and videos. Flash drives have evolved as successors to earlier storage devices like floppy disks, Zip, and Jaz disks. They are widely recognized for their convenience, portability, and capacity to hold significant amounts of data compared to their predecessors.
Flash drives are especially useful for tasks like downloading photos from a digital camera or transferring files between computers without the need for an internet connection. For instance, after downloading photos to a computer, users can copy them onto a flash drive for additional backup or sharing with others. Similarly, flash drives may resemble everyday items like e-cigarettes, as seen with products like JUUL and myblu, making them discreet and versatile for various users.