A batch operating system is a type of operating system that processes jobs in groups or batches without user interaction. It collects similar tasks and executes them sequentially, which helps optimize resource use and reduces idle time. This system is efficient for tasks that require similar processing, such as data processing and scientific computations. In a batch operating system, jobs are submitted to a queue and processed one after another. Users do not interact with the system during execution, allowing for automated job scheduling. This approach is commonly used in environments like mainframes, where large volumes of data need to be processed efficiently.