Chapter 1: Computer System
Additional Questions
1. What is a computer system?
A computer system is an integrated set of hardware and software designed to process data
and perform tasks.
2. What are the components of the CPU?
The CPU comprises three main parts:
o Arithmetic and Logic Unit (ALU): Performs calculations and logical operations.
o Control Unit (CU): Directs the operation of the processor.
o Registers: Small storage locations within the CPU for quick data access.
3. What is primary memory, and how is it different from secondary memory?
o Primary Memory: Temporary storage like RAM, which is fast and volatile.
o Secondary Memory: Permanent storage like hard drives, which is slower but
stores data persistently.
4. How does the computer understand a program written in a high-level language?
Computers only understand machine language (binary). High-level languages are
converted into machine language using compilers or interpreters.
5. What is the primary role of the system bus?
The system bus facilitates communication between different components of the computer
by transferring data and memory addresses.
6. Why is the data bus bidirectional while the address bus is unidirectional?
The data bus is bidirectional because data needs to flow both to and from the CPU. The
address bus is unidirectional because it only sends memory addresses from the CPU to
other components.
7. Differentiate between proprietary software and freeware software.
o Proprietary Software: Owned by a company or individual, requires a license to
use (e.g., Microsoft Office).
o Freeware Software: Free to use but may have limitations (e.g., Adobe Acrobat
Reader).
Page 1 of 1