Ultimate Quiz On Operating Systems

The correct answer is "All of the above". An operating system performs various tasks including memory management, CPU management, virtualizing the hardware to make it easier for the user to use a computer, and device management. Memory management involves allocating and deallocating memory to different processes. CPU management involves scheduling processes and allocating CPU time. Virtualizing the hardware allows the user to interact with the computer without worrying about the underlying hardware details. Device management involves managing input/output devices such as keyboards, printers, and network interfaces. Therefore, all of these roles are typical for an operating system.

A multi-user operating system allows many users to use the system simultaneously. This means that multiple users can log in and access the system at the same time, performing their own tasks and running their own programs. This is in contrast to a single-user operating system, which only allows one user to use the system at a time. In a multi-user system, the operating system must be able to manage and allocate system resources, such as memory and processing power, to multiple users efficiently and fairly.

A time-sharing operating system allows many processes to run 'simultaneously' by allotting each a time-slice. This means that the operating system divides the available CPU time among multiple processes, allowing them to execute in a seemingly simultaneous manner. Each process is given a small time-slice or a portion of CPU time before switching to the next process. This allows for efficient utilization of the CPU and enables multiple users or tasks to run concurrently on the system.

A word processor is not considered system software because it is an application software used for creating, editing, and formatting documents. System software refers to the programs that manage and control the computer's hardware and provide a platform for running applications, such as the operating system, device drivers, defrag utility, and format utility.

A batch processing operating system would be ideal for a payroll system because it involves processing large amounts of data at once, such as calculating salaries and deductions for a large number of employees. The batch processing system can handle these tasks efficiently by grouping them into batches and executing them sequentially, without the need for immediate user interaction. This allows for automated and streamlined processing of payroll data, ensuring accuracy and timeliness in salary calculations.

In an automatic pilot system, a real-time operating system would be absolutely necessary because it requires immediate and precise responses to changing conditions in order to ensure the safety and efficiency of the aircraft. Real-time operating systems are designed to handle time-critical tasks and provide predictable and deterministic behavior, making them essential in situations where timely and accurate responses are crucial.