To answer this question, we need to understand the concept of parity.
Parity is an extra bit stored with data in RAM that is used to check for errors when the data is read back. It is a simple error detection mechanism that helps ensure data integrity.
Let's go through each option to understand why it is correct or incorrect:
Option A) a byte stored in the FAT to indicate remaining slots - This option is incorrect because the byte stored in the File Allocation Table (FAT) is used to track the allocation of disk space, not to indicate remaining slots.
Option B) the optimal transmission speed of data over a CAT 5 cable - This option is incorrect because parity is not related to the transmission speed of data over a CAT 5 cable. Parity is a mechanism used for error detection, not for determining transmission speed.
Option C) a system for balancing the voltage coming out of the power supply - This option is incorrect because parity is not related to balancing the voltage from a power supply. It is primarily used for error detection in data storage and transmission.
Option D) an extra bit stored with data in RAM that is used to check for errors when the data is read back - This option is correct. As mentioned earlier, parity is an extra bit stored with data in RAM that is used to check for errors when the data is read back. It helps detect if any bit has been flipped or corrupted during storage or transmission.
Option E) the optimal transmission speed of data over a CAT 5 cable - This option is incorrect because parity is not related to the optimal transmission speed of data over a CAT 5 cable. Parity is solely a mechanism for error detection.
Therefore, the correct answer is option D.