1. What is the difference between memory and storage?
The difference between memory and storage is that memory
(RAM) is used to hold data and instructions that the CPU needs
to access quickly, while storage (e.g., hard drive, SSD) is used to
store data and programs for long-term use.
2. List the four stages of the fetch-execute cycle.
The four stages of the fetch-execute cycle are:
a. Fetch: The control unit fetches the instruction from
memory.
b. Decode: The control unit decodes the instruction.
c. Execute: The ALU carries out the instruction.
d. Save: The results of the execution are saved back to
memory.
3. Describe what happens during the 'execute' stage of the fetch-
execute cycle, and where it happens.
During the 'execute' stage of the fetch-execute cycle, the ALU
(Arithmetic Logic Unit) carries out the instruction. This stage
happens in the ALU.
4. Explain why a computer with lots of RAM (memory) will
generally go faster than a similar computer with less RAM.
A computer with lots of RAM (memory) will generally go
faster than a similar computer with less RAM because more
RAM allows the CPU to access data and instructions quickly,
without having to wait for data to be retrieved from slower
storage devices. This results in faster overall performance and
responsiveness.