Which term describes the ability to adjust resources as needed in cloud computing?

The correct term that describes the ability to adjust resources as needed in cloud computing is elasticity. Elasticity refers to the capability of a cloud system to automatically scale resources up or down in response to changing demands. This dynamic adjustment helps ensure that applications can maintain performance levels without over-provisioning resources, which can lead to unnecessary costs.

In cloud environments, elasticity allows organizations to efficiently manage varying workloads. For instance, during peak usage times, additional resources can be provisioned seamlessly, and when the demand decreases, those resources can be released, optimizing cost and resource utilization.

Scalability, while related, more often refers to the system's ability to grow in capacity either by adding more resources or accommodating more users. It does not inherently convey the automatic and dynamic nature of adjusting resources as needed, which is the essence of elasticity. Agility pertains to the speed at which organizations can respond to changes and innovate, and simplicity focuses on the ease of use and manageability in cloud systems, but neither specifically captures the capability of resource adjustment in response to demand as closely as elasticity does.