Computer Science Fundamentals and Architecture

Flashcards covering essential computer science terminology, computer architecture components, and basic programming concepts.

What is Computer Science (CS)?

The study of computers, computation, and information.

What is hardware?

The physical components of a computer.

What is software?

Programs and instructions that run on a computer.

What is an Operating System (OS)?

Software that manages a computer's hardware, programs, and applications.

How is data defined in computing?

Information that a computer stores or processes.

What is input?

Information sent into a computer.

What is output?

Information a computer produces.

What is processing?

Performing operations on data.

What is an algorithm?

A step-by-step set of instructions or process for solving a problem.

What is binary?

A number system using only $0$ and $1$.

What is the CPU (Central Processing Unit)?

The main processor that executes instructions.

What is a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit)?

A processor designed for graphics and parallel computing.

What is RAM (Random Access Memory)?

Temporary memory used by running programs.

What is ROM (Read-Only Memory)?

Nonvolatile memory traditionally used to store firmware.

What is a motherboard?

The main circuit board connecting computer components.

What is an SSD (Solid State Drive)?

A storage device that uses flash memory.

What is an HDD (Hard Disk Drive)?

A storage device that uses magnetic disks.

What is a bit?

The smallest unit of digital information.

What is a byte?

A group of $8$ bits.

What is a register?

A small, extremely fast storage location inside the CPU.

What is the ALU (Arithmetic Logic Unit)?

The part of the CPU that performs arithmetic and logical operations.

What is the function of the Control Unit (CU)?

Directs and coordinates CPU operations.

What is cache?

Small, fast memory that stores frequently accessed data.

What is a core in a processor?

An individual processing unit within a CPU.

What is clock speed?

The rate at which a processor's clock operates.

What is an instruction?

A command telling a processor what to do.

What is an instruction set?

The collection of instructions a CPU understands.

What is a bus?

A communication pathway that transfers information between components.

What is a memory address?

A location identifying where data is stored.

What is volatile memory?

Memory that loses its contents when power is removed.

What is nonvolatile memory?

Memory that retains information without power.

What is a programming language?

A language used to write computer instructions.

What is source code?

Human-readable instructions written by a programmer.

What is a variable in programming?

A named storage location for a value.

What is a function in programming?

A reusable block of code that performs a task.

What is a loop?

A section of code that repeats instructions.

What is syntax?

The rules for writing code correctly.

What is a compiler?

Software that translates source code into another form.