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. Heart of the computer
B. Brain of the computer
C. Memory of the computer
D. Input device

Correct Answer: Option B


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. Random Access Memory (RAM)
B. Registers
C. Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU)
D. Control Unit (CU)

Correct Answer: Option A


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. Arithmetic and logical operations
B. Storing data permanently
C. Fetching instructions from memory
D. Controlling input/output devices

Correct Answer: Option A


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. Managing secondary storage
C. Performing calculations
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. Hold data and instructions for immediate processing
B. Control peripheral devices
C. Store data permanently
D. Perform input operations

Correct Answer: Option A


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. Registers
B. Cache Memory
C. CU
D. ALU

Correct Answer: Option C


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. Application Logic Unit
B. Arithmetic Logic Unit
C. Advanced Logic Unit
D. Arithmetic Language Unit

Correct Answer: Option B


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. Execute
B. Decode
C. Store
D. Fetch

Correct Answer: Option D


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. Instruction Register
B. Accumulator
C. Memory Address Register
D. Program Counter

Correct Answer: Option D


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. Decrease clock speed
C. Enable parallel processing
D. Increase memory size

Correct Answer: Option C


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

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