4. ______ component of OS provides basic computing resources like a central processing unit (CPU), memory and input/output devices. (A) Software (B) Application Programs (C) System Programs (D) Hardware
Answer (1)
The correct answer to this question is (D) Hardware.
Let's break down the reasoning:
Operating System (OS): An operating system is a vital component of a computer system that manages both software and hardware resources.
Basic Computing Resources: These include the central processing unit (CPU), memory, and input/output devices, which are critical for the computer's operation.
Role of Hardware:
CPU: The central processing unit is known as the brain of the computer. It is responsible for executing instructions from programs and processing data.
Memory: This includes both RAM (random access memory) and storage devices, which hold data and instructions for processing.
Input/Output Devices: These are peripherals like keyboards, mice, printers, and monitors that allow interaction with the computer.
Why Hardware: The question asks about components that provide essential computing resources. Since hardware physically embodies these components, it is the correct answer.
On the other hand:
Software is a general term covering programs and operating systems, which rely on these hardware components.
Application Programs include software applications that perform specific tasks for users but do not manage resources like a CPU directly.
System Programs are part of the software that helps in running and managing the computer itself, such as the Operating System, but they do not provide the hardware resources themselves.
Thus, the component of the OS that provides basic computing resources like a CPU, memory, and I/O devices is Hardware. This is because the OS directly manages hardware resources to make them available to the application programs and users.
