Introduction to Computer Engineering MCQs (Part-1)
What is the main function of the Central Processing Unit (CPU)?
A Display output
B Process data
C Store data
D Manage memory
The CPU, often referred to as the brain of the computer, is responsible for executing instructions and processing data. It handles all the calculations and logical operations required to run programs, making it the primary component for processing information in a computer system.
Which of the following is the main difference between hardware and software?
A Hardware can be modified, software cannot
B Hardware needs operating systems, software does not
C Hardware is physical, software is virtual
D Hardware is intangible, software is tangible
Hardware refers to the physical components of a computer system like the CPU, RAM, and hard drives, whereas software consists of the programs and applications that run on the hardware. Hardware is tangible, and software is intangible, serving as instructions for hardware to perform tasks.
Who is considered the father of computers?
A Charles Babbage
B Steve Jobs
C Bill Gates
D Alan Turing
Charles Babbage is known as the “father of the computer” for his concept of the Analytical Engine, a mechanical device considered to be the first design for a general-purpose computer. His ideas laid the foundation for modern computing.
What does an operating system do?
A Stores user data
B Runs applications
C Manages the computer’s network
D Controls hardware components
An operating system (OS) is system software that manages the computer’s hardware resources and allows other software to run. It handles tasks such as memory management, file operations, and input/output device control, providing an interface between the user and the hardware.
Which number system is primarily used in computers?
A Octal
B Binary
C Hexadecimal
D Decimal
The binary number system, consisting of only two digits (0 and 1), is used by computers for data processing and storage. This system is efficient for representing data at the hardware level, where each bit can be in one of two states, corresponding to on or off.
What is Boolean algebra primarily used for in computing?
A Data encryption
B Error checking
C Logic operations
D Programming languages
Boolean algebra is a branch of mathematics used in computing for logical operations. It helps in making decisions based on binary values (true/false, 1/0). Boolean operations are fundamental in the design of digital circuits and programming logic.
Which of these is considered an example of system software?
A Operating System
B Antivirus software
C Word Processor
D Web Browser
System software is designed to manage hardware and run application software. The operating system (e.g., Windows, macOS, Linux) is responsible for controlling the computer’s resources, such as memory and processing power, and serves as a platform for running application software.
What does “cloud computing” refer to?
A Storing data on a local hard drive
B Storing data on remote servers over the internet
C Storing data on physical servers
D Storing data in the computer’s memory
Cloud computing involves using remote servers on the internet to store, manage, and process data instead of relying on local servers or personal computers. It allows users to access services and data from anywhere, making computing resources scalable and flexible.
Which of the following is a type of input device?
A Printer
B Speaker
C Monitor
D Keyboard
A keyboard is an input device that allows the user to interact with the computer by typing commands and data. It is one of the primary tools used for providing input to the computer system, along with other devices like a mouse.
What is the primary role of a compiler in programming?
A Execute programs
B Store programs
C To convert source code to machine code
D Test programs for errors
A compiler translates high-level programming language code (source code) into machine code (binary) that the computer’s processor can understand and execute. This process is crucial for the execution of any program written in languages like C, C++, or Java.
What type of computer is typically used for tasks requiring high computational power, such as weather forecasting?
A Supercomputer
B Desktop
C Laptop
D Smartphone
Supercomputers are designed for tasks that require immense computational power, like scientific simulations, weather forecasting, and complex calculations. These machines are capable of performing billions of calculations per second and are used in research and government applications.
Which technology is used in wireless communication for internet access?
A Bluetooth
B Wi-Fi
C Ethernet
D Fiber optic
Wi-Fi (Wireless Fidelity) technology allows devices to connect to the internet without physical cables. It uses radio waves to transmit data between devices and routers, enabling wireless networking for computers, smartphones, and other devices.
What does the term “embedded system” refer to?
A A standalone computer
B A system inside the computer
C A computer within a larger system
D A type of software
An embedded system is a specialized computer designed to perform specific tasks within a larger system, often with real-time computing constraints. Examples include microcontrollers in automobiles, washing machines, and medical devices.
What is the main purpose of an algorithm in computing?
A To solve a problem
B To store data
C To display data
D To sort data
An algorithm is a step-by-step procedure used to perform a task or solve a problem. In computing, algorithms are fundamental to programming and data processing, guiding computers in performing specific functions efficiently and accurately.
What is the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in computing?
A To replace human programmers
B To automate tasks and solve complex problems
C To store large amounts of data
D To automate tasks and solve complex problems
AI is used in computing to enable machines to perform tasks that typically require human intelligence, such as problem-solving, learning from experience, and decision-making. It is applied in areas like robotics, natural language processing, and data analysis.