In which scenarios would JSON be preferable to XML?

JSON is often preferable to XML in scenarios where machine-readability and processing efficiency are priorities. JSON's lightweight structure and simple syntax make it easier for machines to parse and generate, leading to improved performance in applications that handle large volumes of data or require real-time data exchange. Unlike XML, which has a more verbose format with additional markup tags, JSON's use of key-value pairs and arrays allows for quicker parsing and reduced data size, making it more suitable for web applications and APIs that need to transfer data efficiently.

In contrast, options focusing on human readability or simple text data may lean towards formats that prioritize human authoring or viewability. JSON, while generally readable, is designed more for data interchange rather than being a human-readable document structure as XML might be in some contexts. Similarly, XML can be more descriptive and flexible when dealing with complex hierarchical structures due to its support for attributes and nested elements, making it more suitable for certain types of data that require detailed representation. The choice between formats ultimately depends on the specific requirements of the applications involved.