3.1 Computer Architecture Cambridge IGCSE 0478

What is the main function of the Central Processing Unit (CPU)?

• To process instructions and perform calculations

• To store all the files and programs on a computer

• To connect different devices to the motherboard

• To transfer data between input and output devices

What is a microprocessor?

• A single chip that contains the CPU

• A type of RAM used for faster data access

• A special type of hard drive

• A graphics processing unit (GPU)

What is the function of the Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU)?

• To perform arithmetic and logical operations

• To store frequently used instructions

• To control data transfer in the CPU

• To manage communication between different hardware components

Which register stores the address of the next instruction to be fetched?

• Program Counter (PC)

• Memory Address Register (MAR)

• Memory Data Register (MDR)

• Accumulator (ACC)

In the Fetch-Decode-Execute cycle, what happens during the decode stage?

• The control unit interprets the fetched instruction

• The CPU retrieves the instruction from RAM

• The instruction is executed by the ALU

• The instruction's result is stored in the accumulator

What is the function of the cache memory in a CPU?

• To store frequently used data for faster access

• To store the operating system permanently

• To increase the storage capacity of the CPU

• To transfer data between the CPU and secondary storage

How does increasing the number of cores in a CPU improve performance?

• It allows multiple instructions to be processed simultaneously

• It increases the speed of each core

• It reduces the amount of data stored in RAM

• It decreases the power consumption of the CPU

What is the purpose of a clock in a CPU?

• To control the timing of CPU operations

• To store instructions temporarily

• To connect external devices to the CPU

• To process graphical data for display

What is an embedded system?

• A specialized computer system designed for a specific task

• A general-purpose computer like a laptop or desktop

• A system that can install and run any software

• A type of operating system used in mobile devices

Which of the following is an example of an embedded system?

• A washing machine

• A desktop computer

• A gaming laptop