A real-time operating system (RTOS) is characterized by its ability to manage hardware resources and process tasks in a timely manner. RTOS is designed for applications where timing is crucial, such as in embedded systems, robotics, and industrial applications. It ensures that critical tasks are executed within strict time constraints, allowing for predictability and reliability in operations. The key feature of an RTOS is its deterministic behavior, providing guaranteed response times, which is essential for maintaining system stability and performance in real-time environments.