Which of the following together represent the basic operations performed by a digital computer system?

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: All of the above

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
Computers may appear to do many different tasks, from playing music to managing bank accounts, but at a fundamental level they perform only a few basic types of operations. Understanding these core operations helps explain how varied applications can run on the same machine. This question asks which activities are considered basic operations of a digital computer system. Recognising all of them clarifies the role of a computer as a general purpose information processing device.


Given Data / Assumptions:

  • The options mention logical operations, storage and retrieval, and arithmetic operations.
  • The context is a standard digital computer.
  • Input and output are important but not explicitly listed in each option.
  • We are asked which set correctly represents basic operations.


Concept / Approach:
A digital computer performs four major functions: input, processing, storage and output. The processing itself involves two key kinds of operations: arithmetic operations, such as addition and subtraction, and logical operations, such as comparisons and decision making. Storage and retrieval refer to keeping data and programs in memory or on disks so they can be used when needed. Together, arithmetic operations, logical operations and storage/retrieval form the core internal functions of the computer. Therefore, the all of the above option including these three is the correct answer.


Step-by-Step Solution:

Step 1: Identify arithmetic operations as one category. These include calculations such as addition, subtraction, multiplication and division. Step 2: Identify logical operations, such as comparing two values (greater than, equal to) and making decisions based on conditions. Step 3: Recognise storage and retrieval of data as the computer’s ability to save information and bring it back when needed, using memory and storage devices. Step 4: Understand that all modern programs rely on combinations of arithmetic, logical and storage operations at the hardware level. Step 5: Conclude that all three listed categories are basic operations, so All of the above is correct.


Verification / Alternative check:
Computer architecture textbooks describe the central processing unit as executing arithmetic and logic operations using the arithmetic logic unit, while the control unit directs data to and from registers and memory. Block diagrams of computers show data flowing from input devices to processing units, then to memory or output devices. In each case, storage, arithmetic processing and logical decision making are central. Input and output are also essential, but they are not the only operations. Since each of the listed operations appears in core computer models, grouping them together as basic operations is accurate.


Why Other Options Are Wrong:

  • Logical operations on data (alone): Important but incomplete; without arithmetic and storage, a computer could not do most tasks.
  • Storage and retrieval of data (alone): Without arithmetic and logic, the system would function only as a passive memory, not a computer.
  • Arithmetic operations on numbers (alone): Necessary for calculations, but modern computing requires decisions and data storage as well.
  • Input and output only: These are key functions but are not the only basic operations; they do not include internal processing and storage.


Common Pitfalls:
Some learners focus only on calculation and think computers are mainly about arithmetic. Others see computers as fancy storage devices. In reality, the power of a computer comes from combining arithmetic, logical decision making and the ability to store and retrieve large amounts of data. When an all of the above option includes all these core categories, it is often the best choice. To remember, think of a computer as a machine that can calculate, compare and remember information, all under program control.


Final Answer:
The basic operations performed by a computer system include arithmetic operations, logical operations, and data storage and retrieval, so the correct choice is All of the above.

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