What is the difference between primary and secondary storage?

The distinction between primary and secondary storage is fundamentally tied to the way data is accessed and the duration for which it can be stored. Primary storage, such as RAM (Random Access Memory), serves as the main memory where data is stored temporarily. It is considered volatile, meaning that it loses its content when the power is turned off. This makes it ideal for active processes and tasks currently being executed by the computer.

On the other hand, secondary storage encompasses devices like SSDs (Solid State Drives) and HDDs (Hard Disk Drives), which provide long-term data retention. Unlike primary storage, secondary storage is non-volatile, meaning that the data remains intact even when the device is powered down. This allows users to store files, applications, and system data permanently until they decide to delete it.

The choice that identifies primary storage as temporary and secondary storage as permanent accurately captures these key characteristics, which is why it is the correct answer. This understanding is crucial for anyone learning about computer architecture and data management.