CBSE/Karnataka PU Board PUC I CHAPTER 1 : COMPUTER SYSTEM

CBSE/Karnataka PU Board PUC I
CHAPTER 1 COMPUTER SYSTEM

Q1. What is the full form of CPU?
A. Central Processing Unit
B. Computer Processing Unit
C. Central Process Utility
D. Core Processing Unit
Answer: A. Central Processing Unit

Q2. Which device is considered the 'brain' of the computer?
A. Monitor
B. CPU
C. Keyboard
D. Mouse
Answer: B. CPU

Q3. Which memory is volatile?
A. ROM
B. Hard Disk
C. RAM
D. SSD
Answer: C. RAM

Q4. Who is known as the father of computers?
A. Bill Gates
B. Charles Babbage
C. Alan Turing
D. Steve Jobs
Answer: B. Charles Babbage

Q5. Which device is an input device?
A. Printer
B. Monitor
C. Keyboard
D. Speaker
Answer: C. Keyboard

Q6. Which electronic component is used in modern CPUs?
A. Vacuum tube
B. Integrated Circuit
C. Diode
D. Resistor
Answer: B. Integrated Circuit

Q7. The process of storing data permanently is called:
A. Processing
B. Saving
C. Storage
D. Printing
Answer: C. Storage

Q8. Which is not a primary memory device?
A. RAM
B. ROM
C. Hard Disk
D. Cache
Answer: C. Hard Disk

Q9. What type of software is Windows OS?
A. Application Software
B. System Software
C. Utility Software
D. Programming Tool
Answer: B. System Software

Q10. Which device converts digital information to human-understandable form?
A. Mouse
B. Printer
C. Keyboard
D. Pen Drive
Answer: B. Printer

Q11. The first binary programmable computer is:
A. ENIAC
B. Pascaline
C. Analytic Engine
D. Abacus
Answer: A. ENIAC

Q12. Which memory unit is the largest?
A. GB
B. TB
C. YB
D. MB
Answer: C. Yottabyte (YB)

Q13. Which of the following is a software?
A. RAM
B. Monitor
C. VLC Player
D. SSD
Answer: C. VLC Player

Q14. The interface that uses icons and menus is called:
A. Command-based
B. Graphical User Interface (GUI)
C. Touch-based
D. Voice-based
Answer: B. Graphical User Interface

Q15. Example of proprietary software:
A. Ubuntu
B. Python
C. Microsoft Windows
D. LibreOffice
Answer: C. Microsoft Windows

Q16. What does ALU stand for in CPU?
A. Arithmetic Logic Unit
B. Advanced Local Unit
C. Assembled Logical Unit
D. Automated Logic Utility
Answer: A. Arithmetic Logic Unit

Q17. Which is not a secondary storage device?
A. Hard Disk
B. SSD
C. RAM
D. CD/DVD
Answer: C. RAM

Q18. What does OS stand for?
A. Output System
B. Operating System
C. Open Software
D. Original System
Answer: B. Operating System

Q19. Which translator converts assembly language to machine code?
A. Interpreter
B. Compiler
C. Assembler
D. Editor
Answer: C. Assembler

Q20. What is the smallest unit of data in a computer?
A. Byte
B. Bit
C. Kilobyte
D. Nibble
Answer: B. Bit

Q21. Which part is considered as the 'brain' of the computer?
A. Monitor
B. CPU
C. Mouse
D. Printer
Answer: B. CPU

Q22. The full form of RAM is:
A. Read All Memory
B. Random Access Memory
C. Read At Memory
D. Runtime Application Memory
Answer: B. Random Access Memory

Q23. Who is known as the father of computers?
A. Alan Turing
B. Bill Gates
C. Charles Babbage
D. Steve Jobs
Answer: C. Charles Babbage

Q24. Which is not an output device?
A. Monitor
B. Printer
C. Keyboard
D. Speaker
Answer: C. Keyboard

Q25. Which language uses mnemonics?
A. Machine language
B. Assembly language
C. High-level language
D. All of these
Answer: B. Assembly language

Q26. Binary digits are known as:
A. Bytes
B. Nibbles
C. Bits
D. Words
Answer: C. Bits

Q27. Which is not a secondary storage device?
A. CD/DVD
B. Hard Disk
C. RAM
D. SSD
Answer: C. RAM

Q28. ROM stands for:
A. Read Once Memory
B. Read Only Memory
C. Read Only Machine
D. Random Output Memory
Answer: B. Read Only Memory

Q29. The smallest unit of data is:
A. Bit
B. Byte
C. Word
D. Nibble
Answer: A. Bit

Q30. Which is a type of system software?
A. MS Word
B. Device Driver
C. Photoshop
D. Paint
Answer: B. Device Driver

Q31. ENIAC is an example of:
A. First generation computer
B. Second generation computer
C. Third generation computer
D. Fifth generation computer
Answer: A. First generation computer

Q32. GUI stands for:
A. Graphical User Interface
B. Graphical User Instruction
C. General User Interface
D. General Utility Indicator
Answer: A. Graphical User Interface

Q33. Which is NOT a programming tool?
A. Compiler
B. Interpreter
C. Device driver
D. Debugger
Answer: C. Device driver

Q34. A translator that converts assembly to machine code is:
A. Compiler
B. Debugger
C. Assembler
D. Interpreter
Answer: C. Assembler

Q35. Which type of software is Linux?
A. Application software
B. System software
C. Utility software
D. Firmware
Answer: B. System software

Q36. Which is NOT an input device?
A. Microphone
B. Mouse
C. Speaker
D. Scanner
Answer: C. Speaker

Q37. The abbreviation FOSS represents:
A. Free and Open Source Software
B. Full Open Source Software
C. Fast Operating System Software
D. Free On System Service
Answer: A. Free and Open Source Software

Q38. Which device is used for permanent storage?
A. RAM
B. Cache
C. Hard Disk
D. Register
Answer: C. Hard Disk

Q39. Which of the following is a freeware?
A. MS Windows
B. MS Office
C. Skype
D. Tally
Answer: C. Skype

Q40. Which is the most basic system software?
A. Application Software
B. Utility Software
C. Operating System
D. Device Driver
Answer: C. Operating System

2 Mark Questions (20)

State two main differences between primary and secondary memory.
Answer: Primary memory is volatile, faster, and directly accessed by the CPU (e.g., RAM). Secondary memory is non-volatile, slower, and is used for permanent data storage (e.g., Hard Disk).
What are input and output devices? Give an example for each.
Answer: Input devices are used to feed data to the computer (e.g., keyboard). Output devices display/produce results for the user (e.g., monitor).
Name two examples each for FOSS and proprietary software.
Answer: FOSS: Linux, Mozilla Firefox. Proprietary: MS Windows, Tally.
What is the function of the arithmetic logic unit (ALU)?
Answer: ALU performs all arithmetic and logical operations within the CPU.
Differentiate between structured and unstructured data.
Answer: Structured data is organized in a defined format (e.g., tables), unstructured data lacks a specific format (e.g., text, images).
Give two main roles of an Operating System.
Answer: (1) Acts as a resource manager for hardware/software. (2) Provides user interface for interaction.
What is a microprocessor?
Answer: Microprocessor is an integrated circuit which serves as the CPU of a computer system, performing arithmetic, logic, and control functions.
State two functions of a device driver.
Answer: (1) Ensures correct functioning of hardware devices. (2) Acts as interface between OS and the device.
Define compiler and interpreter.
Answer: Compiler translates entire source code to machine code at once; interpreter translates and executes code line by line.
Why is cache memory used in computers?
Answer: Cache memory temporarily stores frequently accessed data for fast CPU access, reducing retrieval time.
What is a bus in a computer system? Name two types.
Answer: Bus is a communication system for transferring data/signals. Types: Data bus, Address bus.
What is Moore’s Law?
Answer: The observation that the number of transistors on a chip doubles every two years, boosting processing power.
Explain the concept of secondary memory with example.
Answer: Non-volatile storage like SSD or Hard Disk used for permanent data storage.
Mention two programming languages and their type (high or low level).
Answer: C – High-level; Assembly – Low-level.
Define the term ‘bit’ and ‘byte’.
Answer: Bit is the smallest unit of digital data. A byte consists of 8 bits.
What is a microcontroller?
Answer: Microcontroller integrates CPU, RAM, ROM, and peripherals on a single chip, used for specific controls in appliances.
Distinguish between application software and system software.
Answer: Application software performs specific user tasks, system software manages hardware and runs applications.
What does an operating system do when multiple applications are running?
Answer: It allocates resources and schedules tasks to ensure efficient processing and avoids conflicts.
Give two examples for touch-based user interface systems.
Answer: Smartphones (Android, iOS), Tablets.
What is the role of the control unit in CPU?
Answer: It directs operations, fetches instructions from memory, and controls the execution of instructions.

3 Mark Questions (20)

Explain the Von Neumann architecture.
Answer: Von Neumann architecture comprises a CPU, memory, input and output devices, and communication buses, using the same memory space for data and instructions.
List three characteristics of secondary storage devices.
Answer: (i) Non-volatile, (ii) Large storage capacity, (iii) Slower than primary memory.
Describe the difference between low-level and high-level languages, giving one example each.
Answer: Low-level: Machine/Assembly language, processor specific. Example: Assembly. High-level: English-like, portable, needs translator. Example: Python.
Describe three key security concerns concerning data storage and suggest solutions.
Answer: Unauthorized access (solution: passwords); Data loss (solution: backup); Data theft via device disposal (solution: secure deletion tools).
What are the functions of system utilities? Name two utility programs.
Answer: Maintain/configure system. Examples: Disk defragmenter, Antivirus.
What are the main differences between microprocessor and microcontroller?
Answer: Microprocessor: only CPU, general purpose. Microcontroller: CPU + RAM + ROM + peripherals, for embedded/specific tasks.
Explain the term ‘bus’ and its types used in computers.
Answer: Bus is a path for data transfer; types include: data bus (bidirectional), address bus (unidirectional), control bus (unidirectional).
List three advantages of using FOSS.
Answer: Free, modifiable/source code available, community support.
Explain the block diagram of a computer system with its components.
Answer: Input devices pass data to CPU, processed with the help of primary memory, then output given through output devices. Secondary storage stores data permanently.
Give reasons why touch-based interfaces are popular in mobile devices.
Answer: Intuitive use, reduces the need for extra hardware, enables advanced gestures/interactive experiences.
Describe the use of translators in software development.
Answer: Translators (assembler, compiler, interpreter) convert human-readable code into machine code understood by computers.
Why is the address bus unidirectional?
Answer: It only carries addresses from CPU to memory/device, not the other way.
How does an OS manage files?
Answer: By creating, updating, deleting, organizing, and protecting files on secondary storage.
What is an Integrated Development Environment (IDE)? Give one example.
Answer: IDE combines editor, compiler, debugger for program development. Example: PyCharm.
Explain the process of data deletion and recovery from storage.
Answer: Deletion typically removes address reference; recovery possible unless overwritten, using special tools.
What are semi-structured data? Give an example.
Answer: Data with tags separating elements, but without fixed structure, e.g., HTML, CSV files.
Compare proprietary software and freeware.
Answer: Proprietary: Paid, source code restricted. Freeware: Free to use, source code usually unavailable.
State reasons why cache memory speeds up CPU operations.
Answer: It allows high-speed data access for frequently used information, minimizing RAM fetch delay.
Explain the evolution of storage devices in computers.
Answer: Progression from punch cards, magnetic tapes, hard disks, to SSDs and cloud storage, each offering more speed and capacity.
Give three examples of utility software and their uses.
Answer: Antivirus (protects from malware), Disk cleaner (frees up space), Backup software (stores data securely).

5 Marks Question with answers(20 Questions):

1. Elaborate on all the types of memory in a computer system with examples.
Answer:
A computer’s memory system is divided into two main types: Primary Memory and Secondary Memory.

Primary Memory: This is the main memory the CPU uses for immediate access to programs and data.
- RAM (Random Access Memory): Volatile memory used to temporarily store data and instructions while processing. When power is off, data is lost. RAM allows programs to run efficiently and multitask. E.g., a computer with 8 GB RAM can run multiple applications.
- ROM (Read Only Memory): Non-volatile, permanent memory that stores firmware, such as the computer’s bootloader or BIOS. Data remains even when power is off. E.g., the BIOS in a PC.
- Cache Memory: High-speed memory located between the CPU and RAM. It stores frequently accessed data to reduce the time the CPU takes to retrieve information. Modern CPUs include multiple levels (L1, L2, L3) of cache, providing instant access to critical instructions and data.
Secondary Memory: Used for permanent data storage, with a much larger capacity than primary memory.
- Hard Disk Drive (HDD): Magnetic storage device, commonly used for operating systems, software, and user files.
- Solid State Drive (SSD): Uses flash memory, faster than HDD, more durable, common in modern laptops.
- Optical Discs (CD, DVD): Useful for software distribution or storing media files.
- USB Flash Drives and Memory Cards: Portable storage for transferring files.
- Magnetic Tape: Still used for backup and archival purposes in large organizations.

Comparison and Access:

Primary memory can be accessed directly by the CPU and is much faster, but volatile and expensive, so its size is typically less.
Secondary memory is non-volatile, has greater storage, but is slower and cheaper per GB.

Hierarchy Example in a PC:

L1/L2/L3 Cache → RAM → SSD/HDD → External devices (USB, CD/DVD)

This hierarchy balances speed and cost, ensuring efficient and secure storage and retrieval of data in computer systems.

2. Draw and explain the block diagram of a computer system.
Answer:
A typical block diagram of a computer includes the following components:

Input Unit: Devices like keyboard, mouse, scanner that feed data and instructions into the computer. Input devices translate user actions/data into binary signals.
Central Processing Unit (CPU): The brain, consisting of:
- Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU): Executes arithmetic and logical operations.
- Control Unit (CU): Directs operations, fetches instructions, and manages the execution sequence.
- Registers: High-speed memory locations within CPU for intermediate values and control.
Memory Unit: Main memory (RAM, ROM) where data and programs currently in use reside.
Output Unit: Devices such as monitor, printer, speakers that present processed data to the user.
Secondary Storage: Devices for long-term storage like SSD, HDD, and pen drives.
System Bus: Interconnects all these parts and is divided into:
- Data Bus: Transfers actual data.
- Address Bus: Carries memory addresses for data transfer.
- Control Bus: Carries signals for operations (read, write, interrupt).

Explanation:
When you type (input), the data reaches the CPU via the input unit, gets processed as per instructions stored in memory, and is output to the monitor/print. Long-term files are stored or retrieved from secondary storage. The system bus coordinates the information flow, ensuring that each component communicates as needed.

3. Explain in detail the functions and objectives of an operating system.
Answer:
The Operating System (OS) is a vital system software acting as an intermediary between hardware and user or application software. Its primary objectives are:

Resource Management: Allocating and managing CPU time, primary memory, hardware devices, and data files among multiple processes and users. For example, in multitasking environments, the OS divides CPU attention between running programs so each responds efficiently.
User Interface: Providing environments for user interaction such as GUI (Graphical User Interface—Windows, Linux) or command-line (UNIX, DOS).
Program Management: Loading, running, stopping software programs, and managing their execution.

Core Functions:

Process Management: Handles scheduling, creation, and termination of multiple processes (running programs). Keeps CPU utilization optimal and handles multitasking or multiprocessing.
Memory Management: Tracks each byte in a computer’s memory, allocating memory to processes when requested and freeing it when not in use, preventing one program from using another’s memory (protection).
File Management: Organizes data in directories, manages reading/writing from disks, handles permissions and security to protect data from unauthorized access.
Device Management: Loads and manages device drivers, facilitating communication between hardware peripherals and rest of the system.
Security and Access Control: User authentication, password protection, file permissions, and protection from malware/viruses.
Error Detection and Response: Notifies users/application software and takes corrective actions in event of hardware faults, software failures, or illegal operations.

In summary, the OS ensures all parts of the computer system work together smoothly to provide an efficient, secure, and user-friendly computing environment.

4. Discuss how user interfaces have evolved in operating systems with examples.
Answer:
The concept of the User Interface (UI) has evolved considerably:

Early-Stage: Command-based UI
Initial operating systems used CLI (Command Line Interface), requiring users to memorize and type commands. Example: MS-DOS, UNIX terminal.
Graphical User Interface (GUI)
1980s introduced GUIs, making computers accessible via windows, icons, mouse pointers. Examples: Windows, macOS, early Linux desktops. Users interacted visually instead of memorizing commands.
Touch-based UI
The rise of smartphones and tablets led to touch-based UIs (like iOS, Android) where gestures replaced clicks. UI became more intuitive, supporting scrolling, zooming, and swiping.
Voice-based and Gesture-based UI
AI-powered voice assistants (Siri, Google Assistant, Cortana) allow hands-free, spoken commands. Gestures like waving or facial recognition in gaming consoles and smart devices (Xbox Kinect, smartphones) expanded how users interact.
Accessibility Innovations
Accessibility features—screen readers, Braille displays, speech recognition—ensure visually or physically challenged users have equal access.
Mixed Reality and beyond
Current trends include AR/VR interfaces (Microsoft HoloLens, Oculus Rift), blending real and virtual interaction.

Each interface shift made computers easier, more intuitive, and accessible for a larger audience, driving the widespread adoption and integration into daily life.

5. Analyze the impact and applications of microcontrollers in modern technology.
Answer:
A microcontroller is a compact integrated circuit designed to govern a specific operation in an embedded system. It combines a CPU, memory (RAM/ROM), and peripherals on a single chip, making it ideal for automation and control applications.

Key Impacts:

Automation & Efficiency: Microcontrollers enable automated operations in everyday devices, reducing human intervention and error.
Cost Reduction & Miniaturization: Integration of all components on a single chip makes devices smaller, lighter, more reliable, and energy-efficient.
Ubiquity in Daily Life: From household appliances to automobiles, microcontrollers make devices smarter and more responsive.

Common Applications:

Home Appliances: Washing machines, microwave ovens, air conditioners—control wash cycles, adjust power and timing, respond to sensors.
Consumer Electronics: Remote controls, digital cameras, smart TVs.
Automobiles: Engine management, airbag deployment, anti-lock braking systems (ABS), vehicle infotainment.
Healthcare Devices: Glucose meters, blood pressure monitors, digital thermometers.
Industrial Automation: Programmable logic controllers (PLCs), robotics, and process control.
Smart Devices/IoT: Smart thermostats, wearables, smart locks, everything connected through the Internet of Things (IoT).

Case Example:
A modern washing machine uses a microcontroller to automate the washing process (filling water, setting temperature, timing cycles, spinning), allowing users to simply select a program and press ‘Start’.

Microcontrollers are essential for the advancement of modern technology, powering the smart revolution and enabling interconnected, adaptive systems everywhere.

6. Summarize security challenges in digital storage and their mitigation.
Answer:
Digital storage introduces several security challenges:

Unauthorized Access: Hackers or unauthorized users gaining access to sensitive data can steal or compromise information.
Data Loss/Corruption: Caused by hardware failure, viruses, accidental deletion, or system crashes, leading to permanent data loss.
Unauthorized Data Recovery: Even after data deletion, information can sometimes be recovered from old storage devices by malicious users.
Malware & Ransomware Attacks: Malicious software can encrypt, destroy, or leak data, often demanding a ransom.

Mitigation Strategies:

Access Controls & Permissions: Use strong, unique passwords and assign specific user roles. Restrict access to sensitive files and folders.
Data Encryption: Encrypt files and storage devices to ensure stolen physical media cannot be read.
Regular Backups: Maintain up-to-date backups (on site/off site/cloud) so data can be restored if lost or corrupted.
Secure Deletion Tools: Use tools that overwrite data ('shredding') before disposing of storage devices, preventing data recovery.
Antivirus/Antimalware software: Monitor and block threats. Keep all protection software updated.
User Education: Train users to recognize and avoid phishing, malware, and unsafe practices.

[NOTE: Kindly cross check answers once from other source also, Quantity and Quality of answers also kindly check before use, specially 5 marks answers are not sufficient kindly add from your side, this gives just quick review]

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