Why is system memory considered volatile?

System memory is considered volatile because it only retains information while the computer is powered up. Volatile memory, such as RAM (Random Access Memory), requires a continuous power supply to maintain the stored data. Once the system loses power, either due to shutting down, restarting, or a power failure, all data in volatile memory is lost. This characteristic is essential for understanding the difference between volatile and non-volatile memory, where the latter, like hard drives and SSDs, retains data even when the power is removed. Thus, the nature of volatile memory directly ties to its reliance on electrical power for data retention.