MCQs on Computer Fundamentals

[Set - 1]

1. What is the primary function of the Central Processing Unit (CPU) in a computer?

A) Store data permanently
B) Execute instructions
C) Connect external devices
D) Display visual output

Correct Answer: B) Execute instructions
Explanation: The Central Processing Unit (CPU) is known as the brain of the computer. It executes instructions from programs by performing basic arithmetic, logic, control, and input/output operations specified by the instructions.

2. Which generation of computers is characterized by the use of transistors?

A) First Generation
B) Second Generation
C) Third Generation
D) Fourth Generation

Correct Answer: C) Third Generation
Explanation: The third generation of computers is characterized by the use of transistors, which replaced the bulky and less reliable vacuum tubes used in the previous generation. Transistors were smaller, more reliable, and more energy-efficient.

3. In computer architecture, what does ALU stand for?

A) Arithmetic Logic Unit
B) Access Logic Unit
C) Array Logic Unit
D) Algorithm Logic Unit

Correct Answer: A) Arithmetic Logic Unit
Explanation: The Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU) is a fundamental component of the CPU that performs arithmetic and logical operations on the data.

4. Which of the following is not an input device?

A) Keyboard
B) Mouse
C) Monitor
D) Scanner

Correct Answer: C) Monitor
Explanation: A monitor is an output device that displays information from the computer. The keyboard, mouse, and scanner are all input devices used to enter data into the computer.

5. What does ROM stand for in computer memory terminology?

A) Read-Only Memory
B) Random-Only Memory
C) Read-Operative Memory
D) Random-Operative Memory

Correct Answer: A) Read-Only Memory
Explanation: ROM stands for Read-Only Memory. It is a type of non-volatile memory that is used to store firmware or software that is not intended to be modified frequently.

6. Which type of computer memory is known for being volatile?

A) ROM
B) Hard Disk
C) RAM
D) Flash Memory

Correct Answer: C) RAM
Explanation: RAM (Random Access Memory) is a volatile memory that loses its contents when the power is turned off. It is used for temporary storage while the computer is operating.

7. The term "hardware" refers to:

A) Programs and applications
B) Physical components of a computer
C) Data and files
D) Operating system functions

Correct Answer: B) Physical components of a computer
Explanation: Hardware refers to the physical components of a computer system, such as the CPU, monitor, keyboard, and hard drive. Software, on the other hand, consists of programs and applications.

8. Which device is used to convert digital signals into analog signals?

A) Modem
B) Router
C) Switch
D) Hub

Correct Answer: A) Modem
Explanation: A modem (modulator-demodulator) is used to convert digital signals from a computer into analog signals for transmission over telephone lines and vice versa.

9. What is the purpose of an operating system?

A) To perform calculations
B) To manage hardware resources 
C) To execute machine-level instructions
D) To store data permanently

Correct Answer: B) To manage hardware resources 
Explanation: The operating system manages the computer’s hardware resources and provides a platform for running applications. It handles tasks such as file management, process scheduling, and memory management.

10. Which generation of computers introduced integrated circuits?

A) First Generation
B) Second Generation
C) Third Generation
D) Fourth Generation

Correct Answer: D) Fourth Generation
Explanation: The fourth generation of computers is characterized by the use of integrated circuits (ICs), which replaced the discrete transistors of the third generation, leading to more powerful and compact computers.

11. What does the term “BIOS” stand for?

A) Basic Integrated Operating System
B) Binary Input Output System
C) Basic Input Output System
D) Binary Input Operating System

Correct Answer: C) Basic Input Output System
Explanation: BIOS stands for Basic Input Output System. It is firmware used to perform hardware initialization during the booting process and to provide runtime services for operating systems and programs.

12. Which of the following is a type of software?

A) Monitor
B) Printer
C) Windows 10
D) Hard Drive

Correct Answer: C) Windows 10
Explanation: Windows 10 is an operating system software, while the monitor, printer, and hard drive are hardware components.

13. In computer systems, what does the term “bus” refer to?

A) A type of software program
B) A communication pathway between components
C) A storage device
D) A networking protocol

Correct Answer: B) A communication pathway between components
Explanation: A bus in computer systems refers to a communication pathway that allows different components of the computer to communicate with each other, such as the CPU, memory, and peripheral devices.

14. Which of the following is a primary storage device?

A) Hard Disk
B) CD-ROM
C) RAM
D) USB Flash Drive

Correct Answer: C) RAM
Explanation: RAM (Random Access Memory) is a primary storage device that provides temporary storage for data and instructions that are actively being used or processed by the CPU.

15. What is the main function of the Control Unit (CU) in a computer?

A) Perform calculations
B) Manage memory
C) Direct the operation of the processor
D) Store data permanently

Correct Answer: C) Direct the operation of the processor
Explanation: The Control Unit (CU) directs the operation of the processor by fetching instructions from memory, decoding them, and executing them, thus managing the flow of data within the CPU.

16. Which of the following is considered an output device?

A) Keyboard
B) Mouse
C) Scanner
D) Speaker

Correct Answer: D) Speaker
Explanation: A speaker is an output device used to produce sound from the computer. The keyboard and mouse are input devices, while the scanner is also an input device.

17. What does the term “software” refer to?

A) Physical components of a computer
B) Programs and operating systems
C) Input and output devices
D) Data storage devices

Correct Answer: B) Programs and operating systems
Explanation: Software refers to the programs and operating systems that run on a computer, enabling the hardware to perform specific tasks and functions.

18. What is the primary function of the “motherboard” in a computer?

A) To store all the computer’s data and files
B) To provide a platform for connecting components
C) To execute programs and manage instructions
D) To handle internet and network connections

Correct Answer: B) To provide a platform for connecting components
Explanation: The motherboard is the main circuit board of a computer that connects and allows communication between the CPU, memory, storage devices, and other hardware components.

19. Which computer generation is associated with the development of microprocessors?

A) First Generation
B) Second Generation
C) Third Generation
D) Fourth Generation

Correct Answer: D) Fourth Generation
Explanation: The fourth generation of computers is associated with the development and use of microprocessors, which are integrated circuits that contain the CPU on a single chip.

20. What does the term “peripheral device” refer to?

A) Internal components of the computer
B) Devices used to connect to the internet
C) External devices connected to the computer
D) Software applications installed on the computer

Correct Answer: C) External devices connected to the computer
Explanation: Peripheral devices are external devices that are connected to a computer to provide additional functionality, such as keyboards, mice, printers, and external hard drives.

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    • MCQs Computer Fundamentals
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    • MCQs Computer Hardware
    • MCQs Computer Software
    • MCQs Operating Systems
    • MCQs Networking and Internet
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