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    Question

    Which of the following accurately describes how

    reinforcement learning differs from supervised learning in machine learning?
    A Reinforcement learning requires labeled data, while supervised learning does not. Correct Answer Incorrect Answer
    B Supervised learning optimizes based on immediate feedback, while reinforcement learning optimizes based on long-term cumulative reward. Correct Answer Incorrect Answer
    C Reinforcement learning operates without feedback, unlike supervised learning. Correct Answer Incorrect Answer
    D Supervised learning is used for exploration, while reinforcement learning focuses on prediction. Correct Answer Incorrect Answer
    E Reinforcement learning focuses on sequential decision-making, whereas supervised learning relies on fixed inputs and outputs. Correct Answer Incorrect Answer

    Solution

    Reinforcement learning (RL) differs fundamentally from supervised learning (SL) in its focus and methodology. RL is designed to handle sequential decision-making problems, where an agent interacts with an environment and learns by maximizing cumulative rewards over time. Key distinctions include: 1. Sequential Decision-Making: RL considers the state of an environment at each step and takes actions that impact future states. For example, in a robot navigating a maze, each action influences the subsequent positions, making the process dynamic and sequential. 2. Absence of Labeled Data: Unlike SL, RL does not rely on labeled input-output pairs. Instead, it uses reward signals as feedback to adjust its actions. 3. Cumulative Reward Optimization: RL aims to maximize long-term benefits, taking into account delayed rewards. This approach is essential in tasks like game-playing or resource allocation. In contrast, SL operates on fixed datasets where inputs and corresponding outputs are predefined, making it effective for tasks like classification and regression but unsuitable for dynamic environments. Why Other Options Are Incorrect: • A) RL requires labeled data: RL does not use labeled datasets; it relies on interaction and feedback from the environment. • B) SL optimizes based on immediate feedback: SL does not work with feedback; it uses labeled data to minimize loss. RL focuses on cumulative rewards, not immediate feedback. • C) RL operates without feedback: RL explicitly depends on feedback in the form of rewards or penalties. • D) SL is used for exploration: SL predicts based on historical data, whereas RL uses exploration to improve decision-making policies.

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