Which statement correctly differentiates testing from debugging?

The correct distinction between testing and debugging is captured in the statement that dynamic testing shows failures caused by defects, while debugging finds, analyzes, and removes the causes of those failures.

Testing is a process aimed at evaluating a system or its components to determine whether it satisfies the specified requirements and to identify defects. This can involve various methods, including dynamic testing, where the software is executed, and failures may be observed. The focus in testing is on revealing discrepancies between expected and actual outcomes, essentially identifying defects but not necessarily determining their root causes.

On the other hand, debugging is a subsequent process that takes place after defects have been identified through testing. It involves a detailed investigation into the nature of the faults (defects) that have been discovered and necessitates understanding why certain failures occurred. Debugging aims to remove the underlying causes of those failures, thereby correcting the software so that it operates as intended.

Understanding this distinction is crucial for anyone involved in software development and quality assurance, as it highlights the separate yet interrelated roles of testing and debugging in the software development lifecycle.