Which type of Ethernet cable can handle data rates up to 40 Gbps?

D is the correct choice because Cat 8 Ethernet cables are specifically designed to support high-speed data transmission. They can handle data rates of up to 40 Gbps and are intended for data centers and high-performance computing environments that require ultra-fast data transmission over short distances. Cat 8 cables are equipped with shielding and improved performance characteristics that enable them to operate effectively at these high speeds, particularly over distances up to 30 meters.

In contrast, while Cat 5e and Cat 6 cables support lower data rates, they do not meet the requirements for 40 Gbps transmission. Cat 5e typically handles up to 1 Gbps for distances up to 100 meters, and Cat 6 supports up to 10 Gbps at shorter distances. Cat 7 can handle 10 Gbps as well and features enhanced shielding, but it is also not rated for 40 Gbps like Cat 8. Thus, Cat 8 is the only category in this selection capable of achieving the desired data rates.