Primary Storage Concepts

Front

What is primary storage?

Back

Primary storage refers to the memory that is directly accessible by the CPU. It stores data that is currently being processed or in use, such as RAM (Random Access Memory) and cache memory.

Front

What is the role of RAM in primary storage?

Back

RAM (Random Access Memory) temporarily stores data and instructions that are being actively used by the CPU. It is volatile, meaning it loses all data when the computer is turned off.

Front

What is cache memory, and why is it important for performance?

Back

Cache memory is a small, high-speed storage located inside the CPU or very close to it. It stores frequently accessed data to speed up access for the processor. It is faster than RAM and helps to improve the overall performance of the system.

Front

What does 'volatile' mean in the context of primary storage?

Back

Volatile means that the data stored in the memory is lost when the power is turned off. Both RAM and cache memory are volatile.

Front

What is the difference between primary storage and secondary storage?

Back

Primary storage (such as RAM and cache) is temporary and fast, used by the CPU to store active data. Secondary storage (like hard drives or SSDs) is permanent and used to store data long-term.

Front

What is ROM, and how does it differ from RAM?

Back

ROM (Read-Only Memory) is non-volatile storage that contains instructions needed to boot up the computer (called the BIOS or firmware). Unlike RAM, ROM cannot be written to or changed by the user, and it doesn't lose its data when the computer is turned off.

Front

Why is RAM considered 'temporary' storage?

Back

RAM is temporary because it only stores data while the computer is on. Once the computer is turned off, all data in RAM is lost.

Front

Which type of primary storage is used to store the BIOS on a computer?

Back

The BIOS is stored in ROM (Read-Only Memory), a type of primary storage.

Front

How does cache memory improve a computer's performance?

Back

Cache memory stores frequently used data so that the CPU can access it more quickly than fetching it from RAM, resulting in faster processing times and overall improved performance.

Front

What would happen if there were no RAM in a computer?

Back

Without RAM, the computer would not be able to store and access active data quickly. It would be much slower, and in many cases, the computer might not function properly because it wouldn’t be able to run applications or the operating system effectively.