Which of the following statements about strings in programming is TRUE?

The statement regarding the immutability of strings is true, meaning strings are immutable to protect integrity across references. When a string is created in many programming languages (like Python, Java, and others), it cannot be altered. If any modifications are performed, a new string is created instead of changing the original string. This immutability feature significantly contributes to the integrity of strings, as it ensures that once a string is created, its value remains consistent throughout the program.

This characteristic is essential for various reasons, such as enhancing performance and security. For example, allowing strings to remain unchanged prevents accidental modifications that could lead to errors in the program, particularly when multiple references to the same string exist. Consequently, using immutable strings helps maintain predictable behavior and state management in code.

In contrast, the other statements are not accurate reflections of string behavior in programming languages that utilize the concept of immutability. Strings being modified after creation contradict the idea of immutability, just as suggesting that changing a string would affect other references also misrepresents the nature of how strings work in these languages. The notion that strings lose their identity once created is also incorrect, as a string retains its identity throughout its lifespan within the program, even though its contents cannot