The case or box that contains the central electronic components of a personal computer is commonly called what?

Introduction / Context:
This question concerns basic computer hardware terminology. A typical desktop computer setup includes several visible parts: the monitor, keyboard, mouse and a main box that houses the core hardware. Many beginners informally call this box the CPU, but that is not technically correct. Examinations test whether you know the proper term used in computer textbooks for this enclosure and its contents, which together form the heart of the machine.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• We are talking about the box that contains the main electronic hardware of a personal computer.
• This includes components such as CPU, motherboard, memory and storage drives.
• Options include motherboard, system unit, peripheral device, RAM module and monitor cabinet.
• Assume a traditional desktop computer, not a tablet or all in one device.

Concept / Approach:
The correct term for the main computer box that encloses the motherboard, processor, memory modules, power supply and internal drives is system unit. It can be a tower, a desktop case or a small form factor case, but the name remains the same. The motherboard is a circuit board inside the system unit, not the box itself. RAM modules are individual memory components. Peripheral devices include external components like keyboards, mice and printers. The monitor cabinet refers to the display enclosure only. Therefore, when the question asks about the box that holds all central electronics, system unit is the correct answer.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:
Open any introductory textbook or online tutorial on computer fundamentals and look at the labelled diagram of a desktop computer. The labels will typically show monitor, keyboard, mouse and system unit or cabinet. They may further annotate components inside the system unit such as motherboard, processor and RAM. Service manuals also refer to replacing parts inside the system unit. This consistent use of terminology across teaching and technical documentation supports system unit as the correct name in this question.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• Motherboard: This is the main printed circuit board inside the system unit that holds the CPU socket, memory slots and expansion slots, but it is not the outer box.
• Peripheral device: This term refers to external devices like keyboards, printers, scanners and external drives.
• RAM module: Random access memory modules are internal components plugged into the motherboard and do not describe the entire unit.
• Monitor cabinet: This is the housing of the display screen and is separate from the system unit box.

Common Pitfalls:
Many people informally point to the system unit and call it the CPU, because the CPU chip is inside it. This habit can cause confusion on exams, where CPU refers specifically to the processor, not the whole box. Otros may choose motherboard because they know it is central to the system, but the question clearly asks about the case containing all core components. To remember the difference, think of the system unit as the entire main body of the computer, just like a body that contains many organs. The motherboard is one important organ inside that body.

Final Answer:
The box that contains the central electronic components of a PC is called the System unit.