Which of the following best describes an Update query?

An Update query is specifically designed to modify existing data in a database. This type of query allows users to change the values in one or more fields of a record or a set of records based on certain conditions or criteria. For instance, if you wanted to change the status of multiple employees from "inactive" to "active", an Update query would be used to identify those records and apply the necessary changes without affecting other data in the database.

The other options describe different types of queries and their functions. For instance, one option describes a query that retrieves data, which is characteristic of a Select query, not an Update query. Another option refers to creating new records, indicative of an Insert query, while the removal of records aligns with a Delete query. Each of these functions is distinct in SQL and database management, further solidifying the role of the Update query in altering existing data.