Quiz: Memory and Storage

1. Why do computers need primary storage (memory)?

To store files permanently when the computer is off To provide fast storage for data and programs currently in use by the CPU To back up important documents To connect to the internet

2. What does "volatile" mean in terms of memory?

The memory is dangerous and can explode The memory loses its contents when power is switched off The memory changes constantly The memory is very fast

3. What is stored in ROM?

Running programs and open documents The BIOS - boot instructions for starting the computer User files and folders Downloaded software

4. Which of the following is TRUE about RAM?

It is non-volatile and keeps data when power is off It can only be read, not written to It stores currently running programs and is volatile It is slower than a hard drive

5. What is virtual memory?

Memory that exists in virtual reality A section of secondary storage used as an extension of RAM when RAM is full Extra RAM that can be purchased online Cloud storage on the internet

6. Why might using virtual memory slow down a computer?

Virtual memory uses the internet which can be slow The hard drive is much slower than RAM, so swapping data takes time Virtual memory reduces the CPU speed Virtual memory only works at night

7. What is the purpose of cache memory?

To store money for online purchases To store frequently used data close to the CPU for faster access To provide extra storage for large files To back up the hard drive

8. A "cache hit" occurs when:

The cache memory breaks The CPU finds the data it needs in the cache The cache runs out of space The user clears the browser cache

9. What is "disk thrashing"?

When the hard drive makes loud noises Excessive swapping between RAM and virtual memory, causing severe slowdown Deleting files from the hard drive A type of hard drive formatting

10. Which memory type is typically the FASTEST?

Hard Disk Drive (HDD) RAM L1 Cache SSD

11. What happens to data in RAM when the computer loses power unexpectedly?

It is automatically saved to the hard drive It is lost permanently It is stored in ROM It is uploaded to the cloud

12. What does BIOS stand for?

Binary Input Output System Basic Input Output System Boot Initial Operating Software Base Integrated Operating System

13. Why do modern computers have multiple levels of cache (L1, L2, L3)?

To store different types of files To balance speed and size - L1 is fastest but smallest, L3 is slower but larger For backup purposes Each level is for a different user

14. Adding more RAM to a computer would:

Reduce the need for virtual memory and improve performance Make the hard drive faster Replace the need for ROM Increase internet speed

15. Which statement correctly describes the relationship between RAM and the hard drive?

RAM stores data permanently, hard drive stores data temporarily Programs run from RAM (fast, temporary), and are stored on the hard drive (slow, permanent) RAM and hard drive are the same thing with different names The hard drive is faster than RAM