Which statement best describes the purpose of a digital twin?

A digital twin is a virtual representation of a physical object or system that serves the purpose of monitoring, analyzing, and optimizing its real-world performance. By creating this digital counterpart, organizations can simulate various scenarios, track performance metrics in real time, and gain insights that lead to informed decision-making. This capability is particularly valuable in industries such as manufacturing, healthcare, and urban planning, where understanding the behavior of complex systems is crucial.

The focus of a digital twin is on the continuous data exchange between the physical and digital worlds, allowing for proactive management and maintenance of physical assets. This leads to improved efficiency, reduced downtime, and enhanced product quality. Therefore, the selection of the second option accurately captures the essence of what a digital twin achieves in practice.