Which of the following is NOT a type of application software?

The correct answer identifies the operating system as a type of software that is distinct from application software. An operating system serves as the foundation for other software, managing hardware resources and providing services for application programs. It acts as an intermediary between users and the computer hardware, facilitating essential functions such as file management, memory management, and process scheduling.

In contrast, application software, like a database, spreadsheets, and entertainment software, is designed to perform specific tasks for users. Database software supports data management, spreadsheets help with numerical data and calculations, and entertainment software is geared towards delivering media content and gaming experiences. These applications rely on the operating system to function but are not responsible for managing hardware resources or system operations themselves.