Which term describes a program that can analyze its environment and respond to achieve a goal?

The term that best describes a program that can analyze its environment and respond to achieve a goal is Artificial Intelligence (AI). AI involves the development of algorithms and systems that allow machines to perform tasks typically requiring human intelligence. This includes capabilities such as understanding natural language, recognizing patterns, making decisions, and adapting to new information or changes in their environment.

AI systems can process information from their surroundings and utilize that data to make informed decisions, adjust actions, or even learn from experiences to improve future performance. These traits enable an AI program to pursue specific objectives effectively.

In contrast, while machine learning is a subset of AI focused specifically on the ability of machines to learn from data, it does not encompass all the decision-making capabilities attributed to AI as a whole. Automation refers to the technology used to perform tasks with minimal human intervention but does not imply the ability to analyze and respond contextually. Data processing involves organizing and analyzing data but does not necessarily involve an active response or goal-oriented behavior like AI does.