Final answer:
Yes, memory can be freed during runtime using the free() function in languages like C, which allows the allocated memory to be returned to the system.
Step-by-step explanation:
When working with dynamically allocated memory in programming, it is essential to manage memory efficiently to prevent memory leaks and other related issues. The correct answer to whether memory can be freed during runtime is a) Yes, using free() function. In languages like C, when you allocate memory using malloc(), calloc(), or similar allocation functions, you can deallocate or free that memory using the free() function. This allows the memory to be returned to the system and reused for other processes.
Effective memory management is crucial in programming, as it helps maintain application performance and resource utilization. By freeing up memory, you ensure that the system's memory is not unnecessarily occupied by the program.