Which directory contains dynamic data, such as for databases and websites?

The correct answer is that the directory containing dynamic data, such as for databases and websites, is the /var directory. The /var directory is specifically designed for variable data—data that is expected to change frequently during the operation of the system. This includes log files, mail spools, print queues, and web content generated or served by HTTP servers.

In file system hierarchy standards, /var is the appropriate location for server-related data that might be dynamic. For instance, websites hosted on a server typically store their content and logs in subdirectories within /var, like /var/www for web content or /var/log for various logs.

The other options have different primary purposes:

• The /srv directory is intended to contain data for services provided by the system, such as websites and FTP, but it is generally used for static data rather than dynamic, changing content.
• The /tmp directory is used as a temporary storage area for files that may be needed for only a short period of time, but it is not intended for data that is expected to persist or that is systematically used in the operation of services like databases and web applications.
• The /mnt directory is a standard mount point for temporary mount locations for file systems, such as external