CPU (Central Processing Unit) MCQs

Practice CPU MCQs with answers and explanations covering ALU, CU, registers, processors and central processing unit concepts frequently asked in competitive exams.

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Question #1 Report Error
The Central Processing Unit (CPU) is also known as the:
A. Brain of the computer
B. Memory of the computer
C. Input device
D. Heart of the computer

Correct Answer: Option A


Explanation:
The CPU is referred to as the brain of the computer as it performs all major processing tasks.

This question belongs to: Computer CPU (Central Processing Unit)
Question #2 Report Error
Which of the following is NOT a main component of the CPU?
A. Control Unit (CU)
B. Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU)
C. Random Access Memory (RAM)
D. Registers

Correct Answer: Option C


Explanation:
RAM is primary memory outside the CPU, while ALU, CU, and Registers are integral parts of the CPU.

This question belongs to: Computer CPU (Central Processing Unit)
Question #3 Report Error
The Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU) primarily performs:
A. Controlling input/output devices
B. Storing data permanently
C. Arithmetic and logical operations
D. Fetching instructions from memory

Correct Answer: Option C


Explanation:
ALU executes arithmetic operations like addition and logical operations like AND, OR.

This question belongs to: Computer CPU (Central Processing Unit)
Question #4 Report Error
The Control Unit (CU) in CPU is responsible for:
A. Directing and coordinating operations
B. Performing calculations
C. Managing secondary storage
D. Storing intermediate results

Correct Answer: Option A


Explanation:
CU fetches, decodes instructions and generates control signals for other components.

This question belongs to: Computer CPU (Central Processing Unit)
Question #5 Report Error
Processor registers are used to:
A. Perform input operations
B. Hold data and instructions for immediate processing
C. Store data permanently
D. Control peripheral devices

Correct Answer: Option B


Explanation:
Registers provide fast temporary storage within the CPU for quick access by ALU.

This question belongs to: Computer CPU (Central Processing Unit)
Question #6 Report Error
Which component of CPU acts as the manager directing the flow of data?
A. CU
B. ALU
C. Registers
D. Cache Memory

Correct Answer: Option A


Explanation:
The Control Unit manages and synchronizes the operations of the CPU.

This question belongs to: Computer CPU (Central Processing Unit)
Question #7 Report Error
The full form of ALU is:
A. Arithmetic Logic Unit
B. Advanced Logic Unit
C. Application Logic Unit
D. Arithmetic Language Unit

Correct Answer: Option A


Explanation:
ALU stands for Arithmetic Logic Unit, handling math and logic in the CPU.

This question belongs to: Computer CPU (Central Processing Unit)
Question #8 Report Error
In the instruction cycle, the first step is usually:
A. Decode
B. Execute
C. Fetch
D. Store

Correct Answer: Option C


Explanation:
The CPU fetches the instruction from memory as the initial step of the fetch-decode-execute cycle.

This question belongs to: Computer CPU (Central Processing Unit)
Question #9 Report Error
Which of the following is a type of register that holds the address of the next instruction?
A. Program Counter
B. Accumulator
C. Instruction Register
D. Memory Address Register

Correct Answer: Option A


Explanation:
The Program Counter (PC) keeps track of the address of the next instruction to be executed.

This question belongs to: Computer CPU (Central Processing Unit)
Question #10 Report Error
Modern CPUs often include multiple cores to:
A. Reduce power consumption only
B. Enable parallel processing
C. Increase memory size
D. Decrease clock speed

Correct Answer: Option B


Explanation:
Multi-core processors allow simultaneous execution of instructions for better performance.

This question belongs to: Computer CPU (Central Processing Unit)