Records in a database are used to store and organize data in a structured manner. They consist of a collection of fields, each containing a specific piece of information. A record represents a complete set of related data about a specific entity or individual.

A telephone number, a birth date, and a customer name are all examples of data that can be stored in a record. Here's why they are considered as records:

1. Telephone number: A telephone number is a unique identifier for a specific individual or organization. It represents a specific piece of information that can be stored in a database record. For example, in a customer database, the telephone number field can be used to store the contact information of customers.

2. Birth date: A birth date represents an important attribute of an individual. It provides information about their age, which can be useful for various purposes like age verification, targeted marketing, or personalized services. In a customer database, the birth date field can be used to store the date of birth of customers.

3. Customer name: The customer name is another important piece of information that can be stored in a database record. It helps in identifying and distinguishing between different customers. In a customer database, the customer name field can be used to store the names of customers.

All these examples represent individual pieces of information that are collected and stored as part of a database record. They provide specific details about a particular entity or individual and are essential for managing and analyzing data effectively.

In conclusion, a telephone number, a birth date, and a customer name are all examples of data that can be stored in a record. They represent specific pieces of information that are collected and organized as part of a database to facilitate data management and analysis. Therefore, the correct answer is option 'A' - a record.