Which code is often used for representing the numeric alphabet in computer memory?

The correct choice is EBCDIC, which stands for Extended Binary Coded Decimal Interchange Code. It is a character encoding system used mainly on IBM mainframe and midrange computer systems. EBCDIC represents both numeric and alphabetic characters through a unique byte (8 bits) for each character, making it suitable for accurately storing and processing textual and numeric data in memory.

This encoding system allows for efficient data handling in mainframe environments, where it was created to support the operation of transactions and other tasks demanding precise character representation. It provides a comprehensive way to encode various characters beyond just the numeric alphabet, including special characters and control codes.

In contrast, while BCD (Binary-Coded Decimal) represents decimal numbers in a binary format and can be used for numeric data, it is not designed specifically for representing the full alphabet. Gray code is primarily used for error correction in digital communications, and plain text refers more generally to uncoded text characters without specific browser or system interpretation. Each of these alternatives serves different purposes, which clarifies why EBCDIC stands out for representing the numeric alphabet in certain computing contexts.