How does optical technology store data for reading?

The correct answer highlights that optical technology stores data through the use of physical structures, specifically pits, on a medium such as a CD, DVD, or Blu-ray disc. When data is written onto these discs, tiny pits are created in a spiral track on the surface. A laser is then used to read this data; when the laser beam strikes the surface, it reflects differently depending on whether it hits a pit or a flat area (land). The differences in reflection are interpreted as binary data—ones and zeros—allowing the optical drive to read the stored information.

This technology relies on the principle that light can be manipulated and detected, making it effective for high-density data storage. Optical mediums tend to have high capacity, and they are commonly used for music, movies, and software distribution due to their durability and portability. Other data storage methods, such as those involving transistors or magnetic disks, do not employ light-based reading mechanisms, distinguishing optical storage as a unique and efficient method.