Which of the following describes software?

The correct choice describes software as "programs that execute tasks and processes." This definition accurately reflects the role of software in computing. Software consists of a set of instructions that tell the hardware how to perform specific tasks. It enables users to interact with the computer and carry out various operations, from simple applications like word processing to complex systems like operating systems. This conceptualization emphasizes the functionality of software as a means to implement processes and tasks, highlighting its importance in operating systems, applications, and various other computing environments.

The other options do not encompass the essence of what software is. The first choice relates to hardware, which refers to the tangible components of a computer, such as the CPU, memory, and storage devices. The third option addresses data but refers to information stored in hardware rather than the actual software programs. The final option mentions an electrical safety procedure, which is unrelated to the definition of software, as it pertains to safety standards rather than programmatic functions. Thus, the choice accurately encapsulates the concept of software being actively responsible for executing tasks and processes in a computing environment.