Which statement best describes the role of version control within software configuration management?

### Why this is right Version control is listed as a software configuration management topic. Its role is to manage versions and changes to software artifacts so that teams can track the evolution of configuration items. ### The concept Configuration management covers the need for control, software configuration items, and the management process. It is distinct from requirements analysis, reliability measurement, and schedule analysis. ### The other options - **B. It estimates the system's reliability from user reports only.**: Reliability is a metrics topic, and the material does not define version control this way. - **C. It replaces requirements analysis.**: Requirements analysis determines and documents needs; version control manages changes to artifacts. - **D. It determines the critical path of project activities.**: The Critical Path Method (CPM) addresses project scheduling. ### Terms - **Artifact**: A work product created or used during software development. - **Configuration management**: Control and organization of software configuration items and their changes. ### Remember Version control tracks artifact history; it does not estimate cost or schedule.