Which of the following best describes peripherals?

Peripherals are best described as external devices that connect to a computer system to provide input, output, or additional functionality. These devices enhance the user experience and interact with the computer's internal components. Examples of peripherals include a mouse, keyboard, printer, scanner, and external storage devices. They are essential for user interaction with the system, allowing users to input data, receive output, and perform various tasks efficiently.

The other choices do not accurately define peripherals. Components that generate output only categorize devices like printers or monitors, but they do not encompass input devices or any additional features that peripherals provide. Internal components that process data refer to hardware like CPUs or RAM, which are integral to the computer's function and not external devices. Lastly, software applications assist hardware but are not categorized as peripherals themselves, as they operate within the system rather than as part of the external technology used to interact with it.