What is a binary search tree?

A binary search tree (BST) is indeed a data structure that maintains sorted data, which allows for efficient search, insertion, and deletion operations. In a BST, each node contains a key and references to its left and right children. The keys in the left subtree of any node are less than the node's key, while the keys in the right subtree are greater. This property facilitates efficient searching, as you can eliminate half of the remaining nodes at each comparison, leading to a time complexity of O(log n) for balanced trees for various operations.

The structure's inherent organization promotes efficient retrieval as well. When data is sorted, binary search is possible, which further enhances the speed and efficiency of operations compared to other data structures such as arrays or linked lists where linear searches are typically required.

In contrast, the other options either describe a narrower condition without the full functionality of a binary search tree, or they refer to entirely different data structures. The binary search tree's capability to maintain sorted data and allow efficient operations is what makes option A the most accurate choice.