Computer Science IGCSE Topics (Hardware, FDE cycle)

Question 1

What is the primary function of the CPU?

Answer 1

To execute instructions and process data.

Question 2

True or False: RAM is a type of non-volatile memory.

Answer 2

False

Question 3

Fill in the blank: The FDE cycle stands for ______, Decode, Execute.

Answer 3

Fetch

Question 4

What does the term ‘input device’ refer to?

Answer 4

A device used to provide data and control signals to a computer.

Question 5

Which of the following is an example of secondary storage? A) RAM B) Hard Drive C) CPU

Answer 5

B) Hard Drive

Question 6

What is the purpose of the ALU in a CPU?

Answer 6

To perform arithmetic and logical operations.

Question 7

True or False: The control unit directs the operation of the processor.

Answer 7

True

Question 8

What is the function of the system bus?

Answer 8

To transfer data between components of the computer.

Question 9

Name one type of output device.

Answer 9

Monitor, Printer, or Speaker

Question 10

Fill in the blank: During the FDE cycle, the CPU retrieves instructions from ______.

Answer 10

Memory

Question 11

What is the role of cache memory?

Answer 11

To provide faster access to frequently used data and instructions.

Question 12

True or False: SSDs are generally slower than HDDs.

Answer 12

False

Question 13

What does RAM stand for?

Answer 13

Random Access Memory

Question 14

In the FDE cycle, what happens during the ‘Decode’ stage?

Answer 14

The CPU interprets the fetched instruction.

Question 15

Which component is responsible for storing data temporarily during processing?

Answer 15

RAM

Question 16

What is the difference between volatile and non-volatile memory?

Answer 16

Volatile memory requires power to maintain stored information, while non-volatile memory does not.

Question 17

True or False: The motherboard connects all the components of a computer.

Answer 17

True

Question 18

What is the function of a graphics card?

Answer 18

To render images and video for display.

Question 19

Fill in the blank: The ______ is the main circuit board in a computer.

Answer 19

motherboard

Question 20

What type of memory is used for permanent storage?

Answer 20

Non-volatile memory

Question 21

What is the purpose of the fetch stage in the FDE cycle?

Answer 21

To retrieve the next instruction from memory.

Question 22

Which of the following is NOT a hardware component? A) CPU B) Software C) Hard Drive

Answer 22

B) Software

Question 23

What is the role of the BIOS in a computer?

Answer 23

To initialize and test hardware components during startup.

Question 24

True or False: A USB flash drive is an example of secondary storage.

Answer 24

True

Question 25

What is meant by 'clock speed' in a CPU?

Answer 25

The speed at which a CPU can execute instructions, measured in Hertz.

Question 26

Fill in the blank: The ______ unit manages data flow inside the CPU.

Answer 26

Control

Question 27

What is the purpose of an operating system?

Answer 27

To manage hardware and software resources and provide services for computer programs.

Question 28

Which type of memory is faster: RAM or cache?

Answer 28

Cache

Question 29

What does the acronym FDE stand for?

Answer 29

Fetch, Decode, Execute

Question 30

Fill in the blank: The CPU consists of the ______ unit and the arithmetic logic unit.

Answer 30

Control

Question 31

What is the primary purpose of input devices?

Answer 31

To allow users to enter data into the computer.

Question 32

What type of storage is typically used for long-term data retention?

Answer 32

Secondary storage