Which type of analysis involves inspecting source code to identify open source components and any libraries used as part of an application's design?

The correct choice is software composition analysis. This type of analysis focuses on examining the source code of applications to identify the open source components and libraries integrated into the application’s design. By doing so, it allows developers and security personnel to assess the security and licensing risks associated with these components.

In many cases, open source libraries may contain vulnerabilities or outdated versions that could expose the application to various security threats. By performing software composition analysis, organizations can ensure that they are aware of all the components that comprise their application, allowing them to manage security updates and licensing compliance effectively.

Understanding which libraries are being used is crucial for maintaining the overall security posture of the application, especially as dependencies can often introduce unforeseen weaknesses. This makes software composition analysis an essential part of the software development lifecycle, particularly in environments that rely heavily on reusable code from third-party sources.