Understanding Software and Hardware

Which types of computer hardware are internal? Check all that apply.

-the CPU -the hard disk drive -the motherboard

Which best describes what is needed to make hardware function?

Different types of software must interact with each other.

Tim is trying to explain to his aunt how her computer works, but she does not understand what a CPU does. Which description will most likely help Tim's aunt understand the CPU's role?

The CPU processes commands from software.

In terms of technology, software is defined as

a computer's applications and programs.

Web browsers, word processing software, and e-mail clients are examples of

application software.

The motherboard is considered the "brain" of a computer because it

connects a system's components.

Nina is trying to learn more about how computers work. She has repeatedly read that the motherboard is the "brain" of the computer. Nina has learned that the motherboard is considered the brain because it

enables the computer to function

Hardware and software work _____ to allow a user to perform a function.

jointly

What does software alone enable a computer to do?

manage other software

A computer's BIOS is defined as the

software within hardware

Gustavo is completing his homework online. When he uses a computer, what converts the information he inputs into instructions that the operating system understands?

the application software

What software controls a computer's basic functions?

the operating system

Computer hardware is best described as

the physical parts of a computer.

How does hardware differ from software?

Hardware can be an external tool, whereas software is an internal tool.

What does the hard disk drive do?

It stores all of the information on a computer.