Question 1: Define RAM and explain its main function in a computer system.

Answer: RAM (Random Access Memory) is a type of volatile memory that temporarily stores data and instructions that the CPU needs to access quickly. Its main function is to provide fast read and write access to a computer's active processes.

Question 2: Name two types of non-volatile memory used in computers and briefly describe their uses.

Answer: Two types of non-volatile memory are: 1) ROM (Read-Only Memory), which stores firmware and is used to boot up the computer; 2) Flash memory, used in USB drives and SSDs for long-term data storage.

Question 3: Draw a simple diagram of a basic memory cell using a flip-flop circuit. Label the key components.

Answer: A correct sketch should show two cross-coupled logic gates forming a flip-flop, with labels for 'Input', 'Output', 'Set', and 'Reset'.

Question 4: Complete the truth table for an AND gate with two inputs, A and B, and one output, C.

Answer: [{"A":0,"B":0,"C":0},{"A":0,"B":1,"C":0},{"A":1,"B":0,"C":0},{"A":1,"B":1,"C":1}]

Question 5: Draw the logic circuit diagram for an OR gate with two inputs.

Answer: A correct sketch should depict the OR gate shape with two inputs entering the curved side and one output.

Question 6: Describe how a NOT gate functions. Include its symbol and truth table in your explanation.

Answer: A NOT gate outputs the opposite value of its input: if the input is 0, output is 1; if the input is 1, output is 0. Its symbol is a triangle pointing to the right with a small circle at the output. Truth table: Input 0 → Output 1; Input 1 → Output 0.

Question 7: Identify which type of memory is typically used to store the BIOS in a computer.

Answer: ROM (Read-Only Memory).

Question 8: Sketch a simple diagram showing how a 2-bit binary counter works using flip-flops. Include the sequence from 00 to 11.

Answer: A correct sketch should show two flip-flops connected in series, with outputs representing binary count states, and arrows indicating the counting sequence: 00, 01, 10, 11.

Question 9: Explain the difference between volatile and non-volatile memory, providing an example of each.

Answer: Volatile memory requires power to retain data, such as RAM. Non-volatile memory retains data even when power is off, such as a hard drive or ROM.

Question 10: Draw a simple logic circuit using NAND gates to perform a NOR operation.

Answer: A correct sketch would show two NAND gates arranged to produce a NOR function, with inputs and outputs clearly labeled, demonstrating the logic equivalence.

Question 11: What is the purpose of cache memory in a computer system? Briefly explain.

Answer: Cache memory temporarily stores frequently accessed data and instructions close to the CPU to improve processing speed and reduce access time to main memory.