Which term indicates the short-lived nature of data stored in RAM?

The term that indicates the short-lived nature of data stored in RAM is volatile memory. This type of memory is designed to hold data temporarily while a device is powered on. When the device is turned off, any data stored in RAM is lost, making it volatile in nature. This characteristic is essential for the functioning of applications and processes that require quick access to data during their operation.

Volatile memory is contrasted with non-volatile memory, which retains data even when the power is turned off. Non-volatile memory includes types such as hard drives and flash drives, which are used for long-term storage purposes. The other options, fixed storage and permanently held data, do not accurately describe the temporary aspect of RAM. Fixed storage typically refers to a specific type of non-volatile memory that is not meant to change often, whereas permanently held data would imply a level of stability that does not reflect the nature of RAM.