Great!

Here is Batch 1 of 5 – first 20 hard MCQs from NCERT Class 11 Computer Science
(Chapter 1: Computer System) with correct answers and explanations.

MCQs 1–20: Chapter 1 – Computer System (Hard Level)

1. Which of the following is not a primary function of the CPU?

A. Performing arithmetic operations

B. Managing input/output devices

C. Controlling program execution

D. Performing logic operations

Answer: B

Explanation: Managing I/O devices is the function of the I/O controller, not the CPU
directly.

2. Which of the following memory types is fastest in access speed?

A. RAM

B. ROM

C. Cache

D. Hard Disk

Answer: C

Explanation: Cache memory is closest to the CPU and provides the fastest access.
3. Which component is responsible for interpreting machine instructions?

A. ALU

B. CU

C. RAM

D. HDD

Answer: B

Explanation: The Control Unit (CU) interprets and directs the execution of machine-level
instructions.

4. What does “non-volatile” memory mean?

A. Memory that operates faster

B. Memory that can be edited

C. Memory that retains data when power is off

D. Memory used for temporary calculations

Answer: C

Explanation: Non-volatile memory retains data even without power, e.g., ROM or HDD.

5. What type of software acts as an interface between the user and hardware?

A. Application software

B. Programming software

C. System software

D. Malware
 Answer: C

Explanation: System software, especially the operating system, bridges user and
hardware.

6. Which of the following is not a valid input device?

A. Joystick

B. Scanner

C. Printer

D. Webcam

Answer: C

Explanation: Printer is an output device.

7. What kind of machine language instructions are stored in ROM?

A. User applications

B. BIOS

C. Spreadsheet software

D. Temporary variables

Answer: B

Explanation: ROM stores BIOS (firmware), which initializes hardware during boot.

8. Which of the following uses binary digits exclusively?

A. Compiler
B. Interpreter

C. Machine Language

D. Assembler

Answer: C

Explanation: Machine language consists of only 0s and 1s, executable by the CPU.

9. What unit of the CPU performs arithmetic comparisons?

A. CU

B. RAM

C. ALU

D. Register

Answer: C

Explanation: ALU (Arithmetic Logic Unit) performs arithmetic and logical comparisons.

10. Which is not a function of the operating system?

A. Memory management

B. Process scheduling

C. Hardware fabrication

D. File handling

Answer: C

Explanation: OS doesn’t deal with hardware manufacturing or fabrication.

11. What does booting a system mean?

A. Formatting a drive

B. Installing drivers

C. Starting the OS

D. Opening a file

Answer: C

Explanation: Booting is the process of loading the operating system into RAM.

12. The speed of CPU is measured in:

A. Hertz

B. Ohms

C. Bytes

D. Watts

Answer: A

Explanation: CPU speed is measured in Hertz (cycles per second), e.g., GHz.

13. Which memory allows simultaneous read and write access?

A. ROM

B. RAM

C. Hard Disk

D. CD-ROM

Answer: B
 Explanation: RAM supports both read and write operations and is volatile.

14. Which of the following is NOT an example of secondary storage?

A. SSD

B. RAM

C. CD

D. HDD

Answer: B

Explanation: RAM is primary memory, not secondary storage.

15. Which of these software types converts entire code at once?

A. Interpreter

B. Assembler

C. Compiler

D. Linker

Answer: C

Explanation: Compiler converts full code into machine code before execution.

16. Which bus transfers data between memory and processor?

A. Control bus

B. Data bus

C. Address bus
D. Power bus

Answer: B

Explanation: Data bus carries data between memory and CPU.

17. What is the permanent memory built into your computer called?

A. RAM

B. Cache

C. ROM

D. Register

Answer: C

Explanation: ROM is permanent, non-volatile memory used to store firmware.

18. What is an interpreter?

A. Hardware to decode signals

B. Software that converts whole program

C. Software that translates and runs code line-by-line

D. A type of OS

Answer: C

Explanation: Interpreter processes code one line at a time during runtime.

19. Which of these is NOT a binary operation?

A. AND

B. OR

C. NOT

D. XOR

Answer: C

Explanation: NOT is a unary operation; it works on a single operand.

20. In computers, 1 KB equals:

A. 1000 bytes

B. 1024 bits

C. 1024 bytes

D. 1000 bits

Answer: C

Explanation: 1 Kilobyte = 1024 Bytes (based on binary system).

Let me know when you’re ready for Batch 2 (MCQs 21–40).

Here is Batch 2 of 5 – MCQs 21 to 40 from NCERT Class 11 Computer Science, Chapter 1:

Computer System, with answers and explanations.

MCQs 21–40: Chapter 1 – Computer System (Hard Level)

21. Which of the following is an essential step in program execution?

A. Power cycling

B. Code optimization

C. Fetch-decode-execute cycle

D. Encryption

Answer: C

Explanation: Every instruction goes through fetch, decode, and execute phases in the
CPU.

22. Which device stores the OS in a mobile phone?

A. RAM

B. ROM

C. SIM

D. MicroSD

Answer: B

Explanation: The operating system is stored in ROM in smartphones for non-volatility.

23. What is the main function of the system clock in a CPU?

A. Store data

B. Process images

C. Synchronize operations

D. Control power supply

Answer: C

Explanation: The system clock generates regular pulses to synchronize all components.
24. Which of the following is not a binary logic gate?

A. AND

B. OR

C. NAND

D. EQ

Answer: D

Explanation: EQ is not a standard logic gate; common gates include AND, OR, NOT,
NAND, NOR, XOR, XNOR.

25. The unit that holds the address of the data to be fetched is:

A. MAR

B. MBR

C. PC

D. IR

Answer: A

Explanation: MAR (Memory Address Register) stores the address of the memory
location to access.

26. Which of these components can temporarily hold an instruction for

decoding?

A. ALU

B. MBR
C. IR

D. RAM

Answer: C

Explanation: The Instruction Register (IR) holds the instruction currently being executed.

27. Which one is not part of the Von Neumann architecture?

A. ALU

B. Memory

C. Control Unit

D. GPU

Answer: D

Explanation: GPU (Graphics Processing Unit) is not a component of the original Von
Neumann architecture.

28. Which of the following is most suitable for long-term data backup?

A. RAM

B. Cache

C. Flash Drive

D. Register

Answer: C

Explanation: Flash drives are commonly used for external long-term data storage.

29. The width of a bus determines:

A. Speed of software

B. Number of cores

C. Amount of data transferred at once

D. Clock speed

Answer: C

Explanation: Bus width affects how many bits of data can be transferred simultaneously.

30. Which component is fastest among the following?

A. SSD

B. RAM

C. Cache

D. DVD

Answer: C

Explanation: Cache is the fastest memory, placed closest to the CPU.

31. What is the basic unit of data storage?

A. Byte

B. Bit

C. Nibble

D. Word

Answer: B

Explanation: A bit (binary digit) is the smallest unit of data.

32. Which instruction transfers program control unconditionally?

A. CALL

B. JUMP

C. RETURN

D. HALT

Answer: B

Explanation: JUMP changes the flow of control unconditionally to another instruction.

33. Which register is used to store the currently fetched instruction?

A. IR

B. MAR

C. PC

D. MBR

Answer: A

Explanation: IR (Instruction Register) holds the instruction currently being

decoded/executed.

34. What determines the amount of data a processor can handle at once?

A. Clock rate

B. Bit size (word size)

C. Cache size
D. OS type

Answer: B

Explanation: A processor’s word size determines how much data it can process in one
operation.

35. Which generation of computers introduced microprocessors?

A. First

B. Second

C. Third

D. Fourth

Answer: D

Explanation: The fourth generation introduced microprocessors using VLSI technology.

36. Which component connects CPU with main memory?

A. Control bus

B. USB

C. PCIe

D. HDMI

Answer: A

Explanation: Control bus is part of the system bus that connects CPU to memory and
devices.

37. What is the output of NOT(1)?

A. 1

B. 0

C. 10

D. Undefined

Answer: B

Explanation: NOT gate inverts the input; NOT(1) = 0.

38. Which of the following registers is updated after fetching an instruction?

A. MAR

B. PC

C. IR

D. MBR

Answer: B

Explanation: The Program Counter is incremented after fetching the instruction to point
to the next.

39. Which memory has the highest cost per bit?

A. HDD

B. RAM

C. Cache

D. ROM

Answer: C
 Explanation: Cache is extremely fast and expensive due to its proximity to the CPU and
build.

40. Which of these is not directly involved in instruction execution?

A. ALU

B. CU

C. Register

D. SSD

Answer: D

Explanation: SSD is secondary storage and not involved in instruction execution by the
CPU.

Let me know when you’re ready for Batch 3 (MCQs 41–60)!

Here is Batch 3 of 5 – MCQs 41 to 60 from NCERT Class 11 Computer Science – Chapter 1:

Computer System, with correct answers and explanations.

MCQs 41–60: Chapter 1 – Computer System (Hard Level)

41. Which bus is responsible for identifying memory locations?

A. Data Bus

B. Address Bus

C. Control Bus

D. Expansion Bus
 Answer: B

Explanation: The address bus carries the memory addresses from the processor to other
components.

42. The control unit of a CPU does not perform:

A. Decoding instructions

B. Executing arithmetic operations

C. Controlling hardware

D. Managing instruction cycles

Answer: B

Explanation: Arithmetic operations are performed by the ALU, not the CU.

43. Which logic gate gives HIGH output only when all inputs are LOW?

A. NAND

B. NOR

C. AND

D. OR

Answer: B

Explanation: NOR gate gives output HIGH only when all inputs are LOW.

44. Which of these devices stores data permanently using magnetic

properties?
A. RAM

B. SSD

C. HDD

D. ROM

Answer: C

Explanation: Hard Disk Drives use magnetic platters to store data permanently.

45. Which memory type is best suited for BIOS?

A. RAM

B. Cache

C. ROM

D. HDD

Answer: C

Explanation: BIOS is stored in ROM because it must be available at boot and cannot be
volatile.

46. What is a machine cycle?

A. A complete electrical signal

B. One clock tick

C. One fetch-decode-execute cycle

D. One loop in a program

Answer: C

Explanation: A machine cycle consists of fetch, decode, execute, and store stages for a
single instruction.
47. What does the acronym “ALU” stand for?

A. Advanced Logic Unit

B. Arithmetic Logic Unit

C. Algorithmic Line Unit

D. Automated Logic Utility

Answer: B

Explanation: ALU stands for Arithmetic Logic Unit, responsible for calculations and
logic.

48. Which part of the memory hierarchy is directly accessible by the CPU?

A. HDD

B. Cache

C. RAM

D. DVD

Answer: B

Explanation: Cache memory is closest to the CPU and accessed directly.

49. What differentiates primary and secondary memory?

A. Speed only

B. Power consumption

C. Volatility and access method

D. Software used

Answer: C

Explanation: Primary memory is volatile and directly accessed by CPU; secondary is

non-volatile and accessed via I/O.

50. Which of these components handles instruction pipelining?

A. HDD

B. ALU

C. Control Unit

D. CPU

Answer: D

Explanation: Instruction pipelining is managed by the CPU architecture to improve

performance.

51. The time taken to retrieve the first byte from memory is called:

A. Bandwidth

B. Latency

C. Throughput

D. Propagation time

Answer: B

Explanation: Latency refers to the delay before data starts transferring.

52. Which register is used to temporarily store data fetched from memory?
A. MAR

B. IR

C. MBR

D. PC

Answer: C

Explanation: The Memory Buffer Register (MBR) holds data read from or written to
memory.

53. What is the binary value of decimal 13?

A. 1100

B. 1011

C. 1101

D. 1110

Answer: C

Explanation: 13 in binary is 1101.

54. Which generation of computers used vacuum tubes?

A. First

B. Second

C. Third

D. Fourth

Answer: A
 Explanation: The first generation used vacuum tubes for circuitry.

55. In which type of memory does data disappear after power is off?

A. ROM

B. SSD

C. RAM

D. HDD

Answer: C

Explanation: RAM is volatile and loses data when power is removed.

56. The smallest addressable unit of memory is a:

A. Bit

B. Word

C. Nibble

D. Byte

Answer: D

Explanation: Memory is addressed in bytes, even though it stores bits internally.

57. Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of a compiler?

A. Translates whole program

B. Generates machine code

C. Requires less memory

D. Slower initial execution

Answer: C

Explanation: Compilers may require more memory compared to interpreters, depending

on optimization.

58. Which of the following components is present in both CPUs and GPUs?

A. ROM

B. ALU

C. Optical drive

D. BIOS

Answer: B

Explanation: Both CPUs and GPUs have ALUs to perform arithmetic/logical operations.

59. The full form of BIOS is:

A. Binary Input Output Storage

B. Basic Integrated Operating System

C. Basic Input Output System

D. Binary Interface for Operating System

Answer: C

Explanation: BIOS stands for Basic Input Output System.

60. Which of the following is a non-impact printer?

A. Dot Matrix

B. Inkjet

C. Line printer

D. Typewriter

Answer: B

Explanation: Inkjet printers spray ink directly and are non-impact printers.

Let me know when you’re ready for Batch 4 (MCQs 61–80)!

Here is Batch 4 of 5 – MCQs 61 to 80 from NCERT Class 11 Computer Science – Chapter 1:

Computer System, complete with correct answers and explanations.

MCQs 61–80: Chapter 1 – Computer System (Hard Level)

61. Which of the following best describes system software?

A. Used to browse the web

B. Enables hardware to interact with software

C. Used to create spreadsheets

D. Software for presentations

Answer: B

Explanation: System software (like the OS) manages hardware and creates a platform for
applications to run.

62. Which type of memory is located between RAM and CPU to speed up
processing?
A. SSD

B. ROM

C. Cache

D. DVD

Answer: C

Explanation: Cache memory is faster than RAM and stores frequently accessed data for
quicker CPU access.

63. Which of the following is not a type of system bus?

A. Data bus

B. Control bus

C. Address bus

D. HDMI bus

Answer: D

Explanation: HDMI is a video/audio transmission interface, not part of the system bus.

64. In binary logic, the output of 1 AND 0 is:

A. 0

B. 1

C. 2

D. Undefined

Answer: A
 Explanation: In AND logic, the result is 1 only if both inputs are 1.

65. Which of the following is true about volatile memory?

A. Data is stored permanently

B. Data remains even after shutdown

C. Data is lost when power is off

D. Used to store firmware

Answer: C

Explanation: Volatile memory like RAM loses data when power is turned off.

66. Which part of a computer temporarily holds data during processing?

A. ROM

B. RAM

C. HDD

D. Monitor

Answer: B

Explanation: RAM stores data and instructions that are currently in use.

67. Which register contains the instruction currently being executed?

A. PC

B. IR

C. MAR
D. DR

Answer: B

Explanation: IR (Instruction Register) holds the current instruction being

decoded/executed.

68. What does the term ‘booting’ refer to?

A. Installing new software

B. Printing files

C. Starting up a computer

D. Shutting down a computer

Answer: C

Explanation: Booting is the process of loading the operating system when the computer
starts.

69. Which of the following is not part of the CPU?

A. ALU

B. CU

C. RAM

D. Registers

Answer: C

Explanation: RAM is separate from the CPU and considered part of main memory.

70. What is the function of the Program Counter (PC)?

A. Counts the number of executed instructions

B. Stores current data

C. Holds the address of the next instruction

D. Controls power supply

Answer: C

Explanation: The Program Counter stores the address of the next instruction to be
executed.

71. Which among these provides the lowest storage capacity?

A. Blu-ray Disc

B. DVD

C. CD

D. Hard Disk

Answer: C

Explanation: CDs typically store up to 700 MB, less than DVDs or Blu-rays.

72. In computers, which unit is responsible for logic operations?

A. Control Unit

B. ALU

C. BIOS

D. GPU

Answer: B
 Explanation: ALU handles arithmetic and logical calculations.

73. What does the term ‘bit’ stand for?

A. Binary Integer Test

B. Binary Item

C. Binary Digit

D. Basic Information Table

Answer: C

Explanation: A bit is short for binary digit — the smallest unit of data.

74. Which type of software is MS Excel?

A. Operating System

B. System Utility

C. Application Software

D. Firmware

Answer: C

Explanation: Excel is an application software used for spreadsheets.

75. What is an example of impact printing technology?

A. Inkjet

B. Laser

C. Dot Matrix
D. Thermal

Answer: C

Explanation: Dot Matrix is an impact printer that physically strikes the paper.

76. Which memory stores data temporarily and is erased when power is off?

A. ROM

B. Hard Drive

C. RAM

D. Flash Drive

Answer: C

Explanation: RAM is volatile and clears on shutdown.

77. A processor’s speed is often measured in:

A. Meters per second

B. Bytes per second

C. Gigahertz (GHz)

D. Watt-hours

Answer: C

Explanation: CPU speed is measured in GHz — billions of cycles per second.

78. Which of the following is a permanent memory?

A. RAM

B. Cache

C. Register

D. ROM

Answer: D

Explanation: ROM is non-volatile and retains information permanently.

79. Which generation introduced the use of Integrated Circuits (ICs)?

A. First

B. Second

C. Third

D. Fourth

Answer: C

Explanation: Third-generation computers used ICs to improve speed and reduce size.

80. Which of the following is not a storage device?

A. Floppy Disk

B. Pen Drive

C. Monitor

D. Blu-ray Disc

Answer: C

Explanation: Monitor is an output device, not used for data storage.

 Let me know when you’re ready for the final batch — Batch 5 (MCQs 81–100)!

Here is the final batch – Batch 5 of 5 – MCQs 81 to 100 from NCERT Class 11 Computer
Science – Chapter 1: Computer System, all hard-level, non-repetitive, with correct answers
and clear explanations.

MCQs 81–100: Chapter 1 – Computer System (Hard

Level)

81. The control unit communicates with which of the following during
instruction execution?

A. Monitor

B. ALU

C. Mouse

D. Printer

Answer: B

Explanation: The control unit sends signals to the ALU to perform operations on data.

82. What is the function of the address bus?

A. To move data between CPU and memory

B. To send commands

C. To specify the address of the memory location

D. To power up the CPU

Answer: C
 Explanation: The address bus carries memory addresses from the CPU to RAM or I/O
devices.

83. What does ASCII stand for?

A. American Standard Code for International Integration

B. American Simple Code for Information Interchange

C. American Standard Code for Information Interchange

D. Automatic Syntax Code for Internal Integration

Answer: C

Explanation: ASCII is the standard encoding for characters used in computers.

84. Which is the most basic logic gate that only has one input?

A. AND

B. OR

C. NOT

D. NAND

Answer: C

Explanation: NOT gate (inverter) has only one input and inverts it.

85. What is the main difference between a compiler and an interpreter?

A. Compilers run slower

B. Interpreters compile the whole code

C. Compilers generate machine code

D. Interpreters create .exe files

Answer: C

Explanation: A compiler translates the entire program into machine code, unlike an
interpreter.

86. Which one of the following is not a characteristic of primary memory?

A. Fast access

B. Directly accessible by CPU

C. Stores data permanently

D. Volatile in nature

Answer: C

Explanation: Primary memory is usually volatile and does not retain data after power is
lost.

87. Which of the following components executes instructions?

A. RAM

B. CU

C. ALU

D. ROM

Answer: C

Explanation: The ALU performs arithmetic and logic operations, hence executes the
instruction logic.
88. What is the purpose of a register in a CPU?

A. Permanent storage

B. Temporary high-speed storage

C. Internet connectivity

D. Controlling hardware

Answer: B

Explanation: Registers temporarily hold data that is being processed by the CPU.

89. What does an assembler do?

A. Converts high-level language to binary

B. Converts assembly code to machine code

C. Stores source code

D. Builds GUI

Answer: B

Explanation: An assembler translates assembly language to machine code.

90. The term “firmware” is best defined as:

A. Temporary software in RAM

B. Software stored in ROM

C. Virus protection tool

D. A word processor

Answer: B
 Explanation: Firmware is software that is permanently stored in a hardware device’s
ROM.

91. What does VLSI stand for?

A. Virtual Logical System Interface

B. Very Large Scale Integration

C. Verified Logical Software Instruction

D. Variable-Level Semiconductor Interface

Answer: B

Explanation: VLSI refers to integrating thousands/millions of transistors on a chip.

92. Which of the following is an optical storage device?

A. Flash Drive

B. SSD

C. CD-ROM

D. Hard Drive

Answer: C

Explanation: CD-ROM is an optical device that reads data using lasers.

93. Which device is necessary for computer to start?

A. Scanner

B. BIOS
C. Modem

D. Printer

Answer: B

Explanation: BIOS initializes the system and starts the OS on boot.

94. What does binary 1010 represent in decimal?

A. 10

B. 8

C. 12

D. 5

Answer: A

Explanation: 1×8 + 0×4 + 1×2 + 0×1 = 10.

95. Which generation of computers used vacuum tubes?

A. First

B. Second

C. Third

D. Fourth

Answer: A

Explanation: First-generation computers used vacuum tubes for processing.

96. What is stored in ROM at the time of manufacturing?

A. Operating system

B. BIOS

C. User applications

D. RAM contents

Answer: B

Explanation: BIOS is pre-installed in ROM for boot and hardware initialization.

97. Which is not a type of volatile memory?

A. RAM

B. Cache

C. Register

D. ROM

Answer: D

Explanation: ROM is non-volatile memory.

98. The unit “Gigahertz” is used to measure:

A. Power

B. Heat

C. Frequency

D. Voltage

Answer: C

Explanation: GHz measures frequency — CPU clock cycles per second.

99. What is the result of 1 XOR 1?

A. 0

B. 1

C. 2

D. Undefined

Answer: A

Explanation: XOR gives 1 when inputs are different. Same inputs give 0.

100. Which of the following is NOT a feature of modern operating systems?

A. Multitasking

B. Security

C. Command prompt only

D. User interface

Answer: C

Explanation: Modern OS includes GUI; command prompt is part of older or specific

interfaces.

That’s all 100 hard-level MCQs with explanations — fully based on Chapter 1 of
NCERT Class 11 Computer Science, but original and non-repetitive.

Would you like a PDF copy of all 100 questions with explanations in one file now?