What does "data encapsulation" refer to in programming?

Data encapsulation in programming refers to the principle of bundling data with the methods that operate on that data. This concept is a core aspect of object-oriented programming, where an object is created to encapsulate both the data (attributes) and the behaviors (methods) that manipulate that data. By doing this, the internal state of an object can be protected from unintended interference and misuse, ensuring that the data can only be accessed and modified in well-defined ways. This adds to the security and modularity of code, making it easier to maintain and understand.

In contrast, the other options focus on different concepts. The separation of data from methods does not align with encapsulation, as encapsulation specifically represents combining these elements. Merging different data types typically involves creating new data structures or formats and does not encapsulate methods and data together. Lastly, transforming data from one format to another is more about data processing and conversion rather than encapsulation, which is centered on the relationship between data and methods within an object.