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Computer architecture and memory quiz

Check your understanding of CPU components, registers, memory, storage, and buses in a basic computer model.

syllabus — topic scope & references
  • Distinguish CPU components and registers
  • Compare RAM, ROM, cache, and secondary storage
  • Identify the roles of common buses

Cambridge IGCSE 0478 (2026–2028): 3.1, 3.3 Computer architecture; data storage.

IB Computer Science (first assessment 2027): A.1 Computer fundamentals.

Original practice on shared foundations. Topic-area links do not imply complete syllabus or SL/HL coverage. Not affiliated with or endorsed by Cambridge or the IB.

Related: Binary and hexadecimal · Networks and internet protocols

COMPUTER ARCHITECTURE AND MEMORY QUIZ
10 questions. Type a, b, or c, then Enter. Explanations follow each answer.
Type review for all worked answers; quiz to restart; topics to switch.
 
Question 1/10: Which CPU component carries out arithmetic and logical operations?
a) The control unit
b) The ALU
c) The network interface
Type answer a, answer b, or answer c. (A single letter works too.)
review — read all questions & worked answers

Computer architecture and memory: questions, answers & explanations

This is the readable reference for the same 10 MCQs. Close this file to continue your quiz, or type quiz to start again.

1. Which CPU component carries out arithmetic and logical operations?

  1. a) The control unit
  2. b) The ALU
  3. c) The network interface

Answer: b) The ALU

The arithmetic logic unit (ALU) performs operations such as addition, comparison, and Boolean logic.

2. What is the control unit's main role in a basic CPU?

  1. a) Coordinate instruction execution using control signals
  2. b) Store files permanently
  3. c) Display the program's interface

Answer: a) Coordinate instruction execution using control signals

The control unit directs the activities needed to fetch, decode, and execute instructions. It sends control signals to coordinate components.

3. Which kind of memory normally loses its contents when power is removed?

  1. a) ROM
  2. b) An SSD
  3. c) RAM

Answer: c) RAM

RAM is volatile working memory. ROM and an SSD retain their stored contents without continuous power.

4. What distinguishes ROM from ordinary RAM?

  1. a) ROM must be cleared every second
  2. b) ROM retains its contents without power
  3. c) ROM is the same as a CPU register

Answer: b) ROM retains its contents without power

ROM is non-volatile. It can hold instructions or data that remain available after the computer is switched off.

5. Why does a CPU use cache memory?

  1. a) To keep frequently needed data or instructions close for faster access
  2. b) To replace all secondary storage
  3. c) To increase the number of pixels on screen

Answer: a) To keep frequently needed data or instructions close for faster access

Cache is a small, fast memory used to reduce the time spent waiting for frequently needed data or instructions.

6. What is a register?

  1. a) A list of registered users
  2. b) A removable storage drive
  3. c) A small storage location within the CPU

Answer: c) A small storage location within the CPU

Registers hold values the CPU needs directly, such as an instruction, an address, or an intermediate result.

7. In a basic fetch–decode–execute model, what does the program counter hold?

  1. a) The number of programs installed
  2. b) The address of the next instruction to fetch
  3. c) The total number of files

Answer: b) The address of the next instruction to fetch

The program counter tracks the instruction address used for the next fetch. A branch instruction can change this sequence.

8. Which storage device uses flash memory rather than spinning magnetic platters?

  1. a) An SSD
  2. b) A magnetic hard disk
  3. c) An optical DVD

Answer: a) An SSD

A solid-state drive stores data in flash memory. It does not use a hard disk's spinning magnetic platters.

9. What does the address bus carry in a basic computer model?

  1. a) Only arithmetic answers
  2. b) The physical address of the computer owner
  3. c) The address of a location being accessed

Answer: c) The address of a location being accessed

The address bus identifies the memory or device location involved in an operation. The data bus carries the data itself.

10. Which bus carries data between the CPU and memory?

  1. a) The address bus
  2. b) The data bus
  3. c) The power cable

Answer: b) The data bus

The data bus transfers data. Its role differs from the address bus, which specifies where an operation should take place.

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