Lifting The Lid: How Computers Work
We watched this video in class together - you can watch the whole thing again before answering these questions or stop and start the video and answer the questions as you go.
Click here to play the video: Lifting the lid
Questions and Answers
- 1.
A general term for devices that plug into a computer is:
- A.
Software
- B.
Hardware
- C.
Peripherals
- D.
Programs
Correct Answer
C. PeripheralsExplanation
Peripherals is the correct answer because it is a general term used to describe devices that are connected to a computer. These devices include external hardware components such as printers, scanners, keyboards, and mice, as well as other accessories that enhance the functionality of a computer system. While software and programs are also related to computer devices, they specifically refer to the instructions and applications that run on a computer, whereas peripherals encompass the physical devices themselves.Rate this question:
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- 2.
What does the cooling fan do?
- A.
Cool the CPU
- B.
Cool the screen
- C.
Keep the person using the computer cool
- D.
Keep dust away from the CPU
Correct Answer
A. Cool the CPUExplanation
The cooling fan is responsible for cooling the CPU. The CPU generates heat while processing data, and the cooling fan helps to dissipate this heat by blowing air over the CPU. This prevents the CPU from overheating, which can cause performance issues or even damage the CPU.Rate this question:
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- 3.
CPU stands for central __________ unit (One word)
Correct Answer
processing, ProcessingExplanation
The correct answer is "processing." CPU stands for central processing unit, which is responsible for executing instructions and performing calculations in a computer system. It is often referred to as the "brain" of the computer as it carries out all the necessary processing tasks to run programs and operate the system.Rate this question:
- 4.
What does the computer use RAM for?
- A.
To store programs and files when it is turned off
- B.
To store instructions and data while it is running
- C.
To cool the CPU
- D.
To read data on a CD-ROM
Correct Answer
B. To store instructions and data while it is runningExplanation
The computer uses RAM to store instructions and data while it is running. RAM stands for Random Access Memory, and it is a type of computer memory that allows data to be read or written in almost the same amount of time regardless of the physical location of data inside the memory. This makes it ideal for storing the instructions and data that the computer needs to access quickly while it is running programs and performing tasks. RAM is volatile memory, meaning that it loses its data when the computer is turned off, so it is not used to store programs and files when the computer is powered off.Rate this question:
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- 5.
BIOS stands for:
- A.
Basic Inside Outside System
- B.
Basic Input Output System
- C.
Broadband Internet Output Service
- D.
Biometric Input Output System
Correct Answer
B. Basic Input Output SystemExplanation
BIOS stands for Basic Input Output System. It is a firmware that is embedded on a computer's motherboard. BIOS is responsible for initializing hardware components, performing a power-on self-test (POST), and loading the operating system into the computer's memory. It provides a low-level interface between the hardware and software, allowing the operating system to communicate with the hardware devices.Rate this question:
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- 6.
What tells a computer what to do when it starts up?
- A.
RAM
- B.
ROM
- C.
CPU
- D.
BIOS
Correct Answer
D. BIOSExplanation
The BIOS (Basic Input/Output System) is responsible for telling the computer what to do when it starts up. It is a firmware that is stored on a ROM (Read-Only Memory) chip on the motherboard. When the computer is powered on, the BIOS performs a series of checks and initializes the hardware components, such as the CPU, memory, and storage devices. It then loads the operating system from the storage device into the computer's RAM (Random Access Memory) so that the CPU can start executing the instructions and the computer can be fully functional.Rate this question:
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- 7.
What does ROM stand for? ____ ____ ______ (Three words)
Correct Answer
read only memory, Read Only MemoryExplanation
ROM stands for read only memory. It is a type of computer memory that can only be read from and not written to. It contains permanent data that is stored during manufacturing and cannot be modified or erased by normal computer operations. ROM retains its data even when the computer is turned off, making it ideal for storing essential instructions and data that need to be preserved. "Read Only Memory" is the expanded form of the acronym ROM, emphasizing its function of being read-only.Rate this question:
- 8.
Where are programs and files stored permanently?
- A.
Floppy Disk Drive
- B.
CD-Rom
- C.
Hard Disk Drive
- D.
CPU
Correct Answer
C. Hard Disk DriveExplanation
Programs and files are stored permanently on a hard disk drive. A hard disk drive is a non-volatile storage device that uses magnetic storage to store and retrieve digital information. It provides a large amount of storage capacity and is commonly used in computers and laptops to store operating systems, software programs, and user data. Unlike floppy disk drives and CD-ROMs, which have limited storage capacity and are more commonly used for temporary storage or data transfer, a hard disk drive offers a reliable and long-term storage solution for programs and files.Rate this question:
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- 9.
Which of these is NOT a card that you would find in a computer?
- A.
Modem
- B.
Network
- C.
Video
- D.
Dance
- E.
Sound
Correct Answer
D. DanceExplanation
The question asks for a card that is NOT found in a computer. Modem, network, video, and sound cards are all components commonly found in computers. However, a dance card is not a computer component and is unrelated to computer hardware or functionality. Therefore, "Dance" is the correct answer as it is the only option that does not belong to the category of computer cards.Rate this question:
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- 10.
A keyboard is an output device.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
B. FalseExplanation
A keyboard is an input device, not an output device. It allows the user to input data, commands, and instructions into a computer or other electronic device. Output devices, on the other hand, display or present information to the user, such as a monitor or printer.Rate this question:
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- 11.
A monitor is an output device.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
A monitor is indeed an output device because it displays visual information from a computer or other electronic device. It takes the electronic signals received from the device and converts them into images that can be seen by the user. Therefore, the statement "A monitor is an output device" is correct.Rate this question:
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- 12.
Speakers are an output device.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
Speakers are indeed an output device as they receive audio signals from a computer or other audio source and convert them into sound waves that can be heard by the user. They play a crucial role in providing audio output for various applications such as music, videos, games, and other multimedia content. Thus, the statement "Speakers are an output device" is correct.Rate this question:
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- 13.
A mouse is an input device.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
A mouse is considered an input device because it allows the user to interact with a computer by moving the cursor on the screen and clicking on various objects or icons. It sends signals to the computer, providing input in the form of movement and button clicks. This input is then processed by the computer to perform the desired actions. Therefore, the statement "A mouse is an input device" is correct.Rate this question:
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- 14.
How does the CD or DVD drive read the information on the disk?
- A.
Electro-magnetic head
- B.
Laser
- C.
Camera
- D.
Scanner
Correct Answer
B. LaserExplanation
The CD or DVD drive reads the information on the disk using a laser. The laser emits a beam of light that is directed onto the surface of the disk. The laser beam reflects off the pits and lands on the disk, which represent the data stored on the disk. The reflections are then detected by a sensor in the drive, which converts the reflections into electrical signals that can be interpreted as data. This process allows the drive to accurately read the information stored on the disk.Rate this question:
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- 15.
What number is represented in Binary by 1111?
- A.
4
- B.
22
- C.
14
- D.
15
Correct Answer
D. 15Explanation
The binary number 1111 represents the decimal number 15. In the binary system, each digit can have a value of either 0 or 1. When all four digits are set to 1, the decimal equivalent is 15.Rate this question:
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- 16.
One dot on a screen is called a
- A.
Pixel
- B.
Bit
- C.
Spot
- D.
Light
Correct Answer
A. PixelExplanation
A dot on a screen is called a pixel. Pixels are the smallest unit of display on a screen and are responsible for creating images. Each pixel represents a specific color and when combined with other pixels, they form the complete image that we see on the screen. Therefore, the correct answer is Pixel.Rate this question:
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- 17.
Why is the hard disk so important?
- A.
Because of the huge amount of data it can store
- B.
Because it allows you to store files separately from your computer
- C.
Because it makes the computer work quickly
Correct Answer
A. Because of the huge amount of data it can storeExplanation
The hard disk is important because it can store a large amount of data. This is crucial because as technology advances, the amount of data being generated and used continues to increase. Having a hard disk with a large storage capacity allows users to store and access large files, such as videos, images, and documents, without running out of space. This is especially important for businesses and individuals who work with large amounts of data and need a reliable storage solution.Rate this question:
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- 18.
0's and 1's are recorded as high and low points and read with a laser on a
- A.
CD-Rom
- B.
Hard disk
- C.
Floppy disk
- D.
Motherboard
Correct Answer
A. CD-RomExplanation
CD-Rom stands for Compact Disc-Read Only Memory. It is a type of optical disc that uses laser technology to read and store data. The statement in the question mentions that "0's and 1's are recorded as high and low points and read with a laser", which perfectly aligns with how data is recorded and read on a CD-Rom. Therefore, the correct answer is CD-Rom.Rate this question:
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- 19.
Why is formatting a disk important?
- A.
So that is looks pretty
- B.
So that the laser can read it
- C.
So the computer knows where to write and read the data
- D.
None of these
Correct Answer
C. So the computer knows where to write and read the dataExplanation
Formatting a disk is important because it allows the computer to organize and allocate space on the disk for storing data. By formatting, the computer creates a file system that keeps track of where data is stored, making it easier for the computer to locate and access the data when needed. This ensures efficient and reliable data storage and retrieval.Rate this question:
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- 20.
RAM is quicker to read and write to than the Hard Disk because it has no moving parts.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
RAM (Random Access Memory) is a type of computer memory that is used to temporarily store data that the computer is actively using. Unlike the Hard Disk, which uses spinning disks to read and write data, RAM has no moving parts. This lack of moving parts allows RAM to access and retrieve data much quicker than the Hard Disk, resulting in faster read and write speeds. Therefore, the statement that RAM is quicker to read and write to than the Hard Disk because it has no moving parts is true.Rate this question:
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- 21.
What makes RAM random?
- A.
It is unpredictable
- B.
It has a grid of storage locations for data and instructions so things can be found quickly
- C.
It systematically looks in one location after another to find data and instructions
Correct Answer
B. It has a grid of storage locations for data and instructions so things can be found quicklyExplanation
The correct answer is that RAM is random because it has a grid of storage locations for data and instructions so things can be found quickly. This means that the data can be accessed and retrieved in any order, without having to search through the memory systematically or sequentially. The grid-like structure allows for random access to any location in the memory, making it faster and more efficient for retrieving data.Rate this question:
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- 22.
Lots of fast RAM makes your computer
- A.
Work quickly
- B.
Work slowly
- C.
Blow up
- D.
Able to permanently store more information
Correct Answer
A. Work quicklyExplanation
Lots of fast RAM makes your computer work quickly because RAM (Random Access Memory) is a type of computer memory that allows for quick and easy access to data. When there is a large amount of fast RAM available, the computer can store and retrieve data more efficiently, resulting in faster processing speeds and smoother performance. This allows for quicker execution of tasks and improved overall responsiveness of the computer system.Rate this question:
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- 23.
How many bits in a byte?
- A.
8
- B.
10
- C.
800
- D.
1000
Correct Answer
A. 8Explanation
A byte consists of 8 bits. Each bit can represent either a 0 or a 1, and when combined, these bits form a byte. Therefore, the correct answer is 8.Rate this question:
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- 24.
How many bytes in a megabyte?
- A.
1
- B.
1000
- C.
100,000
- D.
1,000,000
Correct Answer
D. 1,000,000Explanation
A megabyte is a unit of digital information storage equal to 1,000,000 bytes. This means that there are 1,000,000 bytes in a megabyte.Rate this question:
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- 25.
What is the most basic computer language called?
- A.
Basic
- B.
Visual Basic
- C.
Machine Code
- D.
Morse Code
Correct Answer
C. Machine CodeExplanation
Machine code is the most basic computer language because it consists of binary instructions that can be directly executed by the computer's hardware. It is a low-level language that represents instructions in the form of 0s and 1s, which correspond to specific operations and data manipulation. Unlike higher-level languages like Basic and Visual Basic, machine code does not require any translation or interpretation and is directly understood by the computer's processor. Morse code, on the other hand, is not a computer language but a method of communication using dots and dashes.Rate this question:
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- 26.
What is the name of the unit used to measure the speed of the clock in a computer?
- A.
Terabyte
- B.
Gigahertz
- C.
Hertzagig
- D.
Megahertz
Correct Answer
B. GigahertzExplanation
Gigahertz is the correct answer because it is the unit used to measure the speed of the clock in a computer. The clock speed, measured in gigahertz (GHz), determines how fast the computer's processor can execute instructions. A higher clock speed indicates a faster processor, allowing for quicker data processing and overall performance.Rate this question:
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- 27.
In which order does a computer function?
- A.
Output - Process - Input
- B.
Process - Input - Output
- C.
Input - Process - Output
- D.
Input - Output - Process
Correct Answer
C. Input - Process - OutputExplanation
The correct order in which a computer functions is Input - Process - Output. This means that the computer first receives input from the user or external sources, then processes that input according to the instructions given, and finally produces output in the form of results, display, or actions. This sequence represents the basic flow of information within a computer system, where input is transformed through processing into output.Rate this question:
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- 28.
BONUS QUESTION - This answer will not be found in the video. A barcode scanner is an output device
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
B. FalseExplanation
A barcode scanner is not an output device, but rather an input device. It is used to read and capture information from barcodes, which are typically printed on products or packaging. The scanner converts the barcode into digital data that can be processed and used by a computer or other system. Therefore, the correct answer is False.Rate this question:
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- 29.
BONUS QUESTION - This answer will not be found in the video. A touch-screen is
- A.
An input device
- B.
An output device
- C.
Both
- D.
Neither
Correct Answer
C. BothExplanation
A touch-screen is considered both an input and an output device. It functions as an input device as it allows users to interact with the device by touching the screen and providing input commands. At the same time, it also serves as an output device by displaying information and visuals on the screen in response to the user's input. Therefore, a touch-screen can be classified as both an input and an output device.Rate this question:
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- 30.
BONUS QUESTION - This answer will not be found in the video. These days a basic new PC has 4Gb of RAM - how many phone books worth of information could this hold? (Remember, 256Mb RAM can store the equivalent of 4 phone books).
- A.
64
- B.
32
- C.
16
- D.
128
Correct Answer
A. 64Explanation
A basic new PC with 4GB of RAM can hold the equivalent of 64 phone books worth of information. This is calculated by dividing the total RAM (4GB) by the amount of RAM required to store one phone book (256MB). 4GB is equal to 4000MB, and dividing 4000MB by 256MB gives us approximately 15.63. Since we cannot have a fraction of a phone book, we round down to the nearest whole number, which is 15. Therefore, a PC with 4GB of RAM can hold 15 phone books worth of information.Rate this question:
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