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A DVD (Digital Versatile Disc or Digital Video Disc) is an optical disc used for storing digital data, such as video, software, and other files. DVDs are similar in size to CDs but have a much higher storage capacity, typically 4.7 GB for a single-layer disc and up to 8.5 GB for a double-layer disc, which is over seven times that of a CD. A laser in a DVD drive reads the encoded data by shining a light on the disc's surface as it spins.

Storage Capacity: Holds significantly more data than a CD, allowing for high-quality video and large software programs to be stored.

Function: Reads data using a laser as the disc rotates, with information encoded in tiny pits on its surface.

Applications: Used for distributing movies and software, data backup, and home entertainment.

Physical characteristics: Has the same physical size as a CD but can have double-sided and/or double-layered versions to increase data density.

Prevalence: While still used, the need for a physical DVD drive in computers is decreasing, with many newer models no longer including one.