Which of the following best describes social networks?

The best description of social networks is that they are online communities based on shared interests. This highlights the primary function of social networks, which is to connect individuals who share similar hobbies, preferences, or beliefs, allowing them to communicate, share content, and engage with one another.

Social networks facilitate interaction among users, enabling them to form relationships and communities based on their common interests. This definition encompasses a wide variety of platforms, including those designed for personal connections, interest-based groups, and professional ties, reflecting the diverse nature of social networking.

In contrast, other choices limit the scope of what a social network encompasses. Professional networking platforms focus specifically on job-related connections, while websites that only share news articles do not foster the interactive community aspect that defines social networks. Applications designed for online shopping address a different need altogether, emphasizing e-commerce rather than the social interaction and community-building that social networks provide.