Introduction:
A database management system (DBMS) is a software application that allows users to create, maintain, and manipulate databases. It provides a collection of tools and functionalities that enable users to efficiently store, retrieve, and manipulate data in a structured manner.

Explanation:
The correct answer to the question is option B: Programs.

Programs:
A database management system is composed of various programs that facilitate the creation and maintenance of databases. These programs provide a user interface through which users can interact with the DBMS and perform various operations on the database. Some of the key programs in a DBMS include:

1. Database Creation: The DBMS provides programs that allow users to create a new database. These programs typically include features to define the structure of the database, such as creating tables, defining relationships between tables, and specifying data types for each attribute.

2. Data Manipulation: DBMS programs enable users to insert, update, and delete data in the database. They provide interfaces or query languages that allow users to perform operations such as selecting specific data, modifying existing data, or deleting records.

3. Security and Access Control: DBMS programs include features to enforce security measures and control access to the database. This includes granting or revoking user permissions, implementing authentication mechanisms, and ensuring data privacy.

4. Data Integrity and Validation: DBMS programs help maintain data integrity by enforcing rules and constraints on the stored data. They ensure that the data entered into the database meets certain criteria and is valid according to predefined rules.

5. Backup and Recovery: DBMS programs provide functionalities to create backups of the database and recover data in the event of failures or data corruption. These programs allow users to restore the database to a previous state or recover lost data.

Conclusion:
In summary, a database management system is a collection of programs that enable users to create, maintain, and manipulate databases. These programs provide various functionalities such as database creation, data manipulation, security and access control, data integrity and validation, and backup and recovery.