What Makes a Computer, A Computer?

What is the primary purpose of a wheelbarrow, hammer, or printing press?

• To help with thinking work

• To help with manual work

• To store information

• To process data

Answer explanation

The primary purpose of a wheelbarrow, hammer, or printing press is to assist with manual work. These tools are designed to facilitate physical tasks, making them essential for construction, gardening, and printing.

What work did people wonder if machines could help with?

• Manual work

• Physical work

• Thinking work

• Artistic work

Answer explanation

People wondered if machines could assist with 'thinking work' because it involves complex decision-making and problem-solving, areas where artificial intelligence can potentially excel, unlike manual or physical tasks.

What are the four tasks a computer must perform according to computer science pioneers?

• Input, output, design, build

• Input, store, process, output

• Store, design, build, output

• Process, build, design, store

Answer explanation

The correct answer is 'Input, store, process, output' as these are the fundamental tasks a computer performs. Input refers to data entry, storage is for saving data, processing involves manipulation of data, and output is the result presentation.

What makes a computer a computer?

• Its ability to move physical things

• Its ability to manipulate information

• Its ability to be made of wood and metal

• Its ability to track stars

Answer explanation

A computer is defined by its ability to manipulate information, processing data through various operations. The other options do not capture this fundamental characteristic of computers.

What were the earliest computers made of?

• Plastic and silicon

• Wood and metal

• Glass and rubber

• Stone and clay

Answer explanation

The earliest computers were primarily constructed using wood and metal. These materials were readily available and suitable for the mechanical components of early computing devices, unlike modern materials like plastic and silicon.

Which of the following is NOT a task a computer performs?

• Input

• Store

• Design

• Output

Answer explanation

A computer performs tasks like input, storage, and output of data. However, 'Design' is not a fundamental task of a computer; it refers more to the creative process often done by humans, making it the correct choice.

What tool helps with manual work?

• A calculator

• A telescope

• A wheelbarrow

• A computer

Answer explanation

A wheelbarrow is a tool specifically designed to assist with manual labor, making it easier to transport heavy loads. In contrast, a calculator, telescope, and computer serve different purposes and do not directly aid in manual work.

What machines were designed to help with thinking work?

• Machines that manipulate physical things

• Machines that manipulate information

• Machines that build structures

• Machines that create art

Answer explanation

Machines that manipulate information are designed to assist with thinking work by processing data, enabling analysis, and enhancing decision-making, unlike machines focused on physical tasks or creative outputs.

Which century saw the development of computers from new materials?

• 18th century

• 19th century

• 20th century

• 21st century

Answer explanation

The 20th century marked significant advancements in computer technology, particularly with the introduction of new materials like transistors and semiconductors, which revolutionized computing and led to the development of modern computers.

What is a common feature of all computers?

• They are all made of metal

• They all have gears and levers

• They all perform input, store, process, and output tasks

• They all track stars

Answer explanation

All computers share the fundamental capability to perform input, store data, process information, and output results. This is essential for their operation, unlike the other options which do not apply universally.