Explain the concept of multitasking in an operating system.

Multitasking in an operating system is the capability that allows multiple applications to run concurrently. This means that a user can have several programs open at once, such as a web browser, word processor, and music player, and switch between them seamlessly. The operating system manages the CPU's time and allocates resources to each application, ensuring that all can function without noticeable delays for the user.

In this context, the correct choice highlights the fundamental purpose of multitasking: maximizing efficiency and user experience by allowing simultaneous operations. This capability is critical for modern computing environments where users often need to perform several tasks at the same time.

The other options indicate misunderstandings about multitasking. The mention of single-task processing refers to the opposite of multitasking and does not accurately describe the nature of multitasking systems. The idea of manual switching implies a less efficient user experience compared to modern operating systems that automatically handle task switching in the background. Finally, suggesting that multitasking relies on cloud computing ignores that multitasking is an intrinsic feature of the operating system itself and can occur entirely on a local machine without the need for cloud resources.