What is the maximum RAM limit for 32-bit operating systems?

The maximum RAM limit for 32-bit operating systems is approximately 4GB. This limitation arises from the way 32-bit architectures address memory. In a 32-bit system, the memory address space is defined by 2^32, which totals 4,294,967,296 bytes, or exactly 4GB.

However, in practice, the usable memory is somewhat less due to the need for the operating system to reserve some addresses for system functions, hardware, and other processes. As a result, most 32-bit operating systems will only allow access to about 3.2GB to 3.5GB of RAM for applications. Despite this practical limitation, the theoretical RAM limit remains at around 4GB, which is why this option is correct.

In contrast, options suggesting lower limits or limits beyond 4GB reflect misunderstandings of how memory is managed in 32-bit systems. Typically, 8GB or 16GB RAM capabilities belong to 64-bit systems, which can handle significantly larger amounts of memory due to their expanded address space.