Data stored on disks is easier and faster to locate than data on magnetic tapes because ________.
A) the data on disks is stored in binary form
B) disks have larger and more efficient storage capacities as there are more than three levels of cache
C) disks have both mechanical and electronic parts
D) magnetic tapes store data in tiny magnetic spots with smaller wavelengths
E) computers do not have to scan an entire tape to find a specific data file

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Data on disks is stored in a random access manner, meaning that computers can directly access specific files without having to read through the entire disk. In contrast, magnetic tapes are stored in a sequential access manner, meaning that computers must scan through the entire tape to locate a specific file. Thus, data stored on disks is easier and faster to locate than data on magnetic tapes.

Data Stored on Disks Is Easier and Faster to Locate