In memory management, what is the term for dividing memory into portions for various running programs?

The term that best describes the process of dividing memory into portions for various running programs is known as memory partitioning. This involves breaking the available memory into segments or blocks, allowing multiple processes to run concurrently by assigning each one a specific section of memory.

Memory allocation refers more broadly to the general process of assigning memory to programs or processes as needed, but does not specifically imply the division of memory into discrete portions. Memory scheduling typically refers to the management and timing of memory access for processes rather than the partitioning itself. Memory distribution is not a standard term used in memory management and could be confused with allocation or scheduling.

Understanding memory partitioning is crucial for efficient use of system resources, as it allows for better management of memory and ensures that each program has the resources it requires to operate effectively.