In computer science, particularly in optimization problems, the concepts of bounded and unbounded refer to the constraints placed on variables or resources. A bounded problem has specific limits, meaning that the values of variables are restricted within a defined range. For instance, in the bounded knapsack problem, each item can only be included once. Conversely, an unbounded problem allows for unlimited instances of variables, such as in the unbounded knapsack problem, where items can be selected multiple times. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for selecting appropriate algorithms and strategies for solving various optimization challenges.