Knowledge Checker: Beyond The Museum

Who is widely regarded as the father of computer science?

• Steve Jobs

• Alan Turing

• Bill Gates

• Charles Babbage

Answer explanation

Alan Turing is widely regarded as the father of computer science due to his foundational work in algorithms and computation, particularly with the Turing machine concept, which is central to modern computing.

What was the name of the machine Alan Turing helped design to break the Enigma code during World War II?

• Colossus

• Bombe

• Macintosh

• ENIAC

Answer explanation

Alan Turing helped design the Bombe machine, which was specifically created to decipher the Enigma code used by the Germans during World War II. The Bombe played a crucial role in the Allied victory.

Which company was founded by Steve Jobs, Steve Wozniak, and Ronald Wayne in 1976?

• Microsoft

• Apple

• IBM

• Google

Answer explanation

The company founded by Steve Jobs, Steve Wozniak, and Ronald Wayne in 1976 is Apple. They created it to develop and sell personal computers, marking a significant milestone in the tech industry.

What was the first commercially successful personal computer released by Apple?

• Apple I

• Apple II

• Macintosh

• Lisa

Answer explanation

The Apple II, released in 1977, was the first commercially successful personal computer by Apple, featuring color graphics and an open architecture, which contributed to its popularity and sales.

Which year was the first transatlantic telegraph cable successfully laid?

• 1848

• 1866

• 1901

• 1922

Answer explanation

The first successful transatlantic telegraph cable was laid in 1866, connecting North America and Europe. This marked a significant advancement in communication technology, allowing for faster message transmission across the ocean.

What was the main purpose of the first transatlantic cable?

• To transmit television signals

• To send telegraph messages

• To provide internet access

• To make phone calls

Answer explanation

The main purpose of the first transatlantic cable was to send telegraph messages across the Atlantic Ocean, significantly improving communication between Europe and North America.

Which of the following is a key advantage of satellite networks?

• They are only available in cities

• They can provide coverage to remote areas

• They require underground cables

• They are slower than dial-up

Answer explanation

Satellite networks can provide coverage to remote areas where traditional infrastructure is lacking, making them essential for connectivity in hard-to-reach locations.

What is the name of the first artificial satellite launched into space?

• Apollo 11

• Sputnik 1

• Hubble

• Voyager 1

Answer explanation

The first artificial satellite launched into space was Sputnik 1, which was launched by the Soviet Union on October 4, 1957. Apollo 11 was a manned moon mission, Hubble is a space telescope, and Voyager 1 is a space probe.

Which of the following is NOT a use of satellite networks?

• Weather forecasting

• Global positioning

• Undersea cable repair

• Television broadcasting

Answer explanation

Undersea cable repair is not a function of satellite networks. Instead, satellites are used for weather forecasting, global positioning, and television broadcasting, while undersea cables are used for internet and communication links.

How have computers most significantly impacted society?

• By making typewriters obsolete

• By enabling faster communication and information sharing

• By increasing the price of books

• By reducing the need for electricity

Answer explanation

Computers have revolutionized society primarily by enabling faster communication and information sharing, allowing people to connect and access knowledge instantly, which has transformed personal and professional interactions.