What does the term 'volatile' refer to in computing?

The term 'volatile' in computing refers specifically to data that is stored temporarily and is lost when power is turned off. This type of data is commonly found in RAM (Random Access Memory), which is essential for a system's short-term operation. When a computer is powered on, it uses volatile memory to store data that is actively being used or processed. However, once the power is disconnected or the system is shut down, all data in volatile memory is erased. This characteristic is crucial for understanding how different types of memory work in a computer's architecture and highlights the distinction between temporary and permanent storage solutions.