What does a Solid State Drive (SSD) use to store data?

A Solid State Drive (SSD) utilizes flash memory to store data. Flash memory is a type of non-volatile memory that retains data even when the power is turned off, unlike volatile memory such as RAM. This technology enables SSDs to offer faster read and write speeds compared to traditional hard drives, which rely on mechanical components.

Flash memory is constructed from memory cells made of floating-gate transistors, allowing for quick data access and improved durability, as there are no moving parts involved. This results in greater reliability and reduced risk of mechanical failure. Additionally, SSDs are generally lighter and consume less power than devices that use mechanical methods for data storage.

In the context of the other options, mechanical discs pertain to traditional hard disk drives (HDDs), which rely on spinning disks to read and write data. Magnetic tape is an old technology primarily used for archival storage and backup, while optical disks refer to CDs, DVDs, or Blu-ray discs, which use laser technology to read and write data. These alternatives do not provide the same performance benefits or technological advancements found in SSDs.