What is e-commerce?

E-commerce, or electronic commerce, refers to the buying and selling of goods and services using the internet, typically through websites or mobile applications. This form of commerce enables consumers to browse through an extensive array of products from the comfort of their homes, place orders, and make payments online, all of which fall under the umbrella of what e-commerce truly encompasses.

The other choices involve methods of commerce that do not utilize the internet as a medium for transactions. Shopping exclusively in physical stores represents traditional retailing, while the barter system involves direct exchange of goods without monetary transactions. Participating in live in-store auctions similarly pertains to in-person interactions and transactions. Thus, option B clearly identifies the essence of e-commerce as it highlights the digital nature of the process.