Question: Computers manipulate data in many ways, and this manipulation is called……

Answer:

Computers manipulate data in various ways, and this manipulation is generally referred to as "data processing."

Data processing encompasses a range of activities performed by a computer to transform raw data into meaningful information. It involves the organization, manipulation, calculation, storage, retrieval, and presentation of data to generate useful outputs or insights.

The process of data processing typically involves the following steps:

1. Input: Data is entered into the computer system through various input devices, such as keyboards, mice, scanners, or sensors.

2. Validation: The entered data is validated to ensure its accuracy, completeness, and conformity to predefined rules or standards. This step helps identify and correct errors or inconsistencies in the data.

3. Sorting: Data can be sorted into a specific order based on certain criteria, such as alphabetical, numerical, or chronological order. Sorting facilitates efficient searching, analysis, and retrieval of data.

4. Calculation: The computer performs various calculations or computations on the data using arithmetic, logical, statistical, or other mathematical operations. This step involves manipulating the data to derive new values, perform aggregations, or generate results based on predefined formulas or algorithms.

5. Storage: Processed data is stored in appropriate data structures or storage media, such as databases, files, or memory, for future reference or further processing. This allows the data to be easily accessed and retrieved when needed.

6. Retrieval: Processed data can be retrieved from storage based on specific criteria or user queries. This step involves searching, filtering, and selecting the relevant data for further analysis or presentation.

7. Output: The processed data is presented or displayed in a meaningful format, such as reports, charts, graphs, or visualizations. The output can be in various forms, including text, images, audio, or video, depending on the nature of the data and the intended audience.

Data processing plays a fundamental role in various domains and applications, including business, finance, scientific research, healthcare, and many others. It enables computers to transform raw data into valuable information that can support decision-making, analysis, automation, and other tasks.

In summary, the manipulation of data performed by computers is commonly referred to as "data processing," which involves a series of steps including input, validation, sorting, calculation, storage, retrieval, and output.