1.2 Primary Memory and Secondary Storage

What is the main function of the CPU in a computer?

• To store long-term data
• To carry out the fetch, decode, execute cycle
• To display information
• To transfer data from RAM

Answer explanation

The CPU processes instructions by executing the fetch-decode-execute cycle.

Which type of memory is referred to as 'volatile'?

• ROM
• Flash storage
• RAM
• Hard Disk Drive

Answer explanation

Volatile memory is temporary and is deleted once power is lost, as with RAM.

What does primary memory store?

• Long-term files
• Data and instructions that can be accessed directly by the CPU
• Backup data
• Data from external devices

Answer explanation

Primary memory, like RAM, holds data and instructions that the CPU can access directly.

What is secondary storage used for?

• Storing open programs
• Storing data long-term
• Storing boot instructions
• Running the CPU

Answer explanation

Secondary storage holds data for long-term use, even when power is off.

Which type of memory is used to store the boot instructions in a computer?

• RAM
• Virtual memory
• ROM
• Cache

Answer explanation

ROM is non-volatile memory and is used to store the BIOS and boot instructions.

What is virtual memory?

• Memory that holds permanent data
• Part of the hard drive used temporarily when RAM is full
• Data stored on optical media
• Memory that is faster than RAM

Answer explanation

Virtual memory is used to store active programs when RAM is full.

Which of the following is an example of optical storage?

• USB flash drive
• CD-ROM
• Hard Disk Drive
• RAM

Answer explanation

Optical storage reads data using lasers, as in CDs and DVDs.

How does flash storage store data?

• Using magnetic fields
• Using lasers
• Using transistors
• Using binary digits

Answer explanation

Flash storage uses electric transistors to store data.

What is a byte?

• 1 bit
• 8 bits
• 100 bits
• 1000 bits

Answer explanation

A byte consists of 8 bits.

What number system is used by computers?

• Denary
• Hexadecimal
• Binary
• Base-10

Answer explanation

Computers use the binary number system, which only uses 1s and 0s.