Step 1: Understanding the relationship between the sample variance and standard deviation.
The sample variance \( S^2 \) is an unbiased and consistent estimator of the population variance. However, the sample standard deviation \( S \), being the square root of \( S^2 \), is generally biased.
Step 2: Evaluate consistency.
Although \( S \) is biased, it is still a consistent estimator of the population standard deviation because as the sample size increases, the bias diminishes, and the estimator approaches the true value.
Step 3: Conclusion.
Since \( S \) is biased but consistent, the correct answer is (B).
Final Answer: (B) biased and consistent