What does a public key certificate signify in the context of electronic records?

A public key certificate serves as an electronic credential that helps in verifying the identity of the signer in electronic transactions. It contains crucial information, including the public key of the signer and details about the issuing authority (often a trusted certificate authority). This certification allows recipients of electronic documents to ensure that the signer's identity is legitimate, which is essential for establishing trust in digital communications.

While the other options mention important aspects related to document signing and notarization, they do not specifically capture the primary role of a public key certificate. For instance, ensuring document accuracy is more about the integrity of the content rather than the identification of who signed it. Similarly, legal requirements for notarization pertain to adherence to laws and regulations surrounding notarization rather than the technology or credentials involved. Lastly, while digital signatures may be standardized, a public key certificate specifically focuses on identifying the person behind the digital signature, rather than establishing a standard format for the signature itself.