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A storage device that uses lasers to read CDs, DVDs, or Blu-ray discs is referred to as a(n) ___ .

Multiple Choice
a.magnetic drive
b.flash drive
c.optical drive
d.external hard drive

User DanZimm
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1 Answer

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Final answer:

An optical drive uses lasers to read and interpret the data stored on CDs, DVDs, or Blu-ray discs. The laser technology differs between storage formats, with Blu-Ray using a blue laser for higher storage capacity. (option c)

Step-by-step explanation:

The storage device that uses lasers to read CDs, DVDs, or Blu-ray discs is referred to as an optical drive. These devices work by interpreting data stored in the form of tiny pits and bumps. A laser reads these pits and bumps as the disc spins, where a CD player utilizes a red laser, and a Blu-Ray player uses a blue laser for its higher resolution capability due to the shorter wavelength of blue light. Blu-ray discs, in particular, have smaller pits and higher storage densities as compared to CDs or DVDs, allowing them to store much more information such as 9,400,000 pages of text.

Conversely, a magnetic drive refers to a storage device like an external hard drive that uses magnetic fields to store data, while a flash drive uses solid-state memory for data storage without moving parts.

User DNac
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