Which characteristic distinguishes application software from system software?

Application software is specifically crafted to support end-user tasks and facilitate a range of functions that users directly interact with, such as word processing, spreadsheet manipulation, graphic design, and database management. This characteristic sets it apart from system software, which is designed to provide a platform for running application software and managing hardware components.

System software includes operating systems and utility programs that handle tasks such as memory management and device control, functioning at a foundational level that is typically not accessible to the end user. In contrast, the primary aim of application software is to offer tools and functionalities that allow users to perform specific tasks or solve particular problems.

Consequently, the distinction lies in the purpose of application software versus system software. While application software is geared towards end-users, system software underpins the system's functionality without direct user engagement for specific applications. This focus on facilitating user tasks through application software is a key characteristic that differentiates it from system software.