Introduction to Computers and Programming

A set of vocabulary flashcards covering key concepts from the lecture on computer hardware, programming languages, and the programming process.

Central Processing Unit (CPU)

The primary component of a computer that processes instructions.

Main Memory

The computer's memory that stores data and instructions currently being used.

Registers

A small amount of memory within the CPU used for temporary storage.

Arithmetic and Logic Unit (ALU)

The component of the CPU responsible for performing calculations.

Control Unit

Part of the CPU that coordinates the operations of the processor.

Instruction Cycle

The process by which the CPU executes instructions.

Primary Memory

The fast memory (RAM) used for immediate data and instruction access.

Secondary Memory

Larger, slower storage like hard drives used for long-term data retention.

Machine Language

The binary language (0's and 1's) understood by a computer.

High-Level Languages

Programming languages that use natural language elements and are easier to understand.

Low-Level Languages

Programming languages that are closely tied to hardware and require detailed knowledge of the system.

Compiler

A software tool that translates high-level programming code into machine language.

Syntax

The set of rules governing the structure of statements in a programming language.

Flowchart

A visual representation of the logic of a function or algorithm.

Preprocessor Directives

Special instructions in a program that prepare code for compilation.

Executable File

The output file created by the compiler that can be run on a computer.

Text Editor

Software used to create and edit source code for programming.

Algorithm

A step-by-step procedure for solving a problem or accomplishing a task.

Global Declaration

A declaration of variables that are accessible throughout the program.