Computer Processing and Memory

What does CPU stand for in a computer system?

• Central Processing Unit

• Computer Processing Unit

• Central Processing Unit

• Central Power Unit

Answer explanation

CPU stands for Central Processing Unit, which is responsible for executing instructions and performing calculations in a computer system.

Explain the function of RAM in a computer.

• RAM is responsible for processing user input in a computer

• RAM in a computer is used for storing images and videos

• RAM in a computer stores data and machine code currently being used, allowing the CPU to access it quickly.

• RAM functions as a long-term storage device in a computer

Answer explanation

RAM in a computer stores data and machine code currently being used, allowing the CPU to access it quickly.

Describe the purpose of cache memory in a computer.

• Cache memory is used to increase the size of the main memory

• Cache memory is used to store data permanently

• Cache memory in a computer is used to store frequently accessed data and instructions to reduce the time taken to access them from the main memory.

• Cache memory is used to perform complex calculations

Answer explanation

Cache memory in a computer is used to store frequently accessed data and instructions to reduce the time taken to access them from the main memory.

What is the role of ALU in the CPU?

• Manages the flow of data within the CPU

• Regulates the power supply of the CPU

• Performs arithmetic and logical operations on data

• Controls the input and output operations of the CPU

Answer explanation

The ALU in the CPU performs arithmetic and logical operations on data, making it responsible for executing calculations and comparisons within the processor.

How do registers contribute to the processing speed of a computer?

• Registers slow down the processing speed by causing data congestion.

• Registers are only used for storage and have no impact on processing speed.

• Registers are primarily decorative elements in a computer system.

• Registers provide quick access to data and instructions, speeding up the overall processing of a computer.

Answer explanation

Registers provide quick access to data and instructions, speeding up the overall processing of a computer.

Explain the concept of virtual memory and its significance.

• Virtual memory is a type of memory that cannot be accessed by the computer

• Virtual memory is a memory management technique that allows a computer to compensate for physical memory shortages by temporarily transferring data from RAM to disk storage. This enables programs to run as if they have more memory than physically available. Virtual memory significantly enhances system performance by providing a larger effective memory size.

• Virtual memory is a physical storage device used to store data temporarily

• Virtual memory is a technique used to increase the speed of data transfer between CPU and RAM

Answer explanation

Virtual memory is a memory management technique that allows a computer to compensate for physical memory shortages by temporarily transferring data from RAM to disk storage. This enables programs to run as if they have more memory than physically available. Virtual memory significantly enhances system performance by providing a larger effective memory size.

What is the primary function of the CPU in a computer system?

• Brew coffee

• Water plants

• Execute instructions and perform calculations

• Play music

Answer explanation

The primary function of the CPU in a computer system is to execute instructions and perform calculations, not to brew coffee, water plants, or play music.

How does RAM differ from cache memory in terms of storage capacity?

• Cache memory has a larger storage capacity compared to RAM.

• RAM has a larger storage capacity compared to cache memory.

• RAM and cache memory have the same storage capacity.

• RAM has a smaller storage capacity compared to cache memory.

Answer explanation

RAM has a larger storage capacity compared to cache memory, making it the correct choice.

What are the types of registers commonly found in a CPU?

• Data Register, Address Register, Program Counter, Memory Address Register, Memory Buffer Register

• Index Register

• Instruction Register

• Control Register

Answer explanation

The types of registers commonly found in a CPU include Data Register, Address Register, Program Counter, Memory Address Register, and Memory Buffer Register.

Discuss the importance of memory hierarchy in computer systems.

• Memory hierarchy slows down computer performance

• Memory hierarchy only consists of one level of storage

• Memory hierarchy in computer systems is important for optimizing performance by providing faster access to frequently used data through multiple levels of storage with varying speeds and sizes.

• Memory hierarchy is irrelevant in computer systems

Answer explanation

Memory hierarchy in computer systems is important for optimizing performance by providing faster access to frequently used data through multiple levels of storage with varying speeds and sizes.