Fill Gap Exercise - Computer System

Explanation
Open source software refers to software that allows users to freely access, modify, and distribute its program code. This means that anyone can view and modify the source code, leading to a collaborative and transparent development process. Open source software promotes innovation, as developers can build upon existing code and customize it to suit their needs. It also fosters a sense of community, as users can contribute to the improvement of the software. Overall, open source software encourages knowledge sharing and provides users with the freedom to use, study, modify, and distribute the software.

Explanation
A 4-bit word is called a nibble because a nibble represents half of a byte. In computing, a byte is typically composed of 8 bits, so a nibble represents half of that amount. The term "nibble" is derived from "nybble," which was used to describe 4-bit groups in early computer systems. The use of the term "nibble" has since become more common and is widely accepted in the field of computer science.

Explanation
RAM stands for Random Access Memory and is a type of volatile memory. Volatile memory refers to a type of computer memory that requires power to retain data. RAM is used to store data that is actively being used by the computer, such as running programs and open files. It allows for fast access to data, but the data is lost when the computer is powered off or restarted. Therefore, RAM is considered volatile memory.

Explanation
The system bus is responsible for transferring data, addresses, and control signals between different components of a computer system. It acts as a communication pathway that allows the CPU, memory, and other devices to exchange information and coordinate their operations. The system bus typically consists of multiple lines or wires that carry different types of signals, such as data lines for transferring data, address lines for specifying memory locations, and control lines for managing the flow of information. Overall, the system bus plays a crucial role in facilitating the smooth operation and interaction of various hardware components within a computer system.

Explanation
An operating system is a program that acts as an interface between a user and the hardware. It manages the computer's resources, provides a user-friendly environment, and allows users to interact with the hardware without having to directly manipulate it. The operating system handles tasks such as managing memory, scheduling processes, handling input and output, and providing a platform for applications to run. Therefore, the correct answer for the given question is "operating system".

Explanation
The smallest quantum of data is a bit. A bit is the basic unit of information in computing and digital communications. It represents a binary digit, which can have a value of either 0 or 1. All digital data is ultimately represented and processed as a series of bits. Therefore, a bit is the smallest indivisible unit of data that can be manipulated and stored in a computer system.

Explanation
A string of 8 bits is commonly referred to as a byte. In computer systems, a byte is the basic unit of storage and is typically used to represent a single character of text or a small amount of numerical data.

Explanation
Cache memory is faster than main memory because it is located closer to the CPU and has a smaller capacity. It stores frequently accessed data and instructions, allowing the CPU to quickly retrieve them without having to access the slower main memory. This helps to improve the overall performance of the computer system by reducing the time it takes for the CPU to fetch data and instructions.

Explanation
A light pen is classified as an input device because it allows users to interact with a computer system by directly pointing at the screen. It functions by emitting a beam of light, which is detected by the computer when it intersects with the screen. This allows users to select objects, draw, or perform other actions simply by pointing at the desired location on the screen. Therefore, the light pen serves as an input mechanism that enables users to provide input to the computer system.

Explanation
The given question is asking for the missing stage in the information processing sequence. Based on the order of the stages mentioned (input, processing), the logical next stage would be output. This is because after information is inputted and processed, it needs to be presented or displayed in some form as output. Therefore, the correct answer is output.

Explanation
1 PB is equal to 1024 TB. This is because in the binary system, each prefix represents a power of 2. PB stands for petabyte, which is 2^50 bytes, and TB stands for terabyte, which is 2^40 bytes. Therefore, to convert from PB to TB, we need to multiply by 2^10, which is equal to 1024.

Explanation
The given answer "output" is correct because a printer is a device that produces output in the form of printed documents or images. It takes digital information from a computer or other devices and converts it into a physical copy on paper or other print media. Therefore, a printer is commonly known as an output device.

Explanation
The manipulation of symbols, numbers, and letters occurs in the CPU. The CPU, or Central Processing Unit, is the primary component of a computer that performs calculations, executes instructions, and manages data flow. It is responsible for carrying out arithmetic and logical operations on symbols, numbers, and letters, which are represented in binary form. The CPU processes these symbols, numbers, and letters by following instructions stored in its memory, performing calculations, and generating results. Therefore, the manipulation of symbols, numbers, and letters occurs within the CPU.

Explanation
CU stands for Control Unit. The control unit is a component of a computer's central processing unit (CPU) that directs the operation of the processor. It manages the flow of data between the CPU and other devices such as memory, input/output devices, and secondary storage. The control unit is responsible for fetching, decoding, and executing instructions, as well as coordinating the activities of all other units within the CPU. It plays a crucial role in ensuring the proper functioning and synchronization of the various components of a computer system.

Explanation
The full form of HDD is "hard disk drive." HDD refers to the primary storage device used in computers and other electronic devices for storing and retrieving digital information. It consists of one or more rigid disks coated with a magnetic material, which allows data to be read from and written to the disk using a read/write head. The term "hard disk drive" accurately describes the physical components and functionality of this storage device.