Question 1

In computer software design, what is the name of the program component that lets you structure a program in an unusual, cooperative way by allowing two routines to yield control to each other?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: In programming language theory and systems programming, there are control-flow constructs that go beyond simple function calls and returns. One such construct enables two routines to cooperatively pass control back and forth, producing sequences or state machines elegantly. This question asks you to identify that component. Given Data / Assumptions: The component restructures program flow in an unusual or nontraditional way. Two routines may suspend and resume each other without unwinding the whole call stack. Focus is on software control flow, not data structures. Concept / Approach: A coroutine is a generalization of a subroutine. Unlike a function that returns once, a coroutine can yield multiple times, pausing its execution state and later resuming. Coroutines are ideal for generators, cooperative multitasking, and iterative producers/consumers. Step-by-Step Solution: Identify the key feature: cooperative yielding between program parts.Match to terminology: 'coroutine' explicitly supports yield/resume semantics.Eliminate unrelated terms (statistics, math, or data-structure words). Verification / Alternative check: Languages such as Python (generators/async), Lua (coroutine library), and C# (async/await with state machines) provide coroutine-like behavior to structure complex workflows without explicit threads. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Correlation: a statistical relationship, not a code component. Diagonalization: a mathematical proof technique. Queue: a data structure; does not itself control cooperative execution. None of the above: incorrect because 'Coroutine' precisely fits. Common Pitfalls: Confusing coroutines with threads; coroutines are cooperative and usually single-threaded. Assuming generators are the only use; they are one application of coroutines. Final Answer: Coroutine.

Question 2

Systems programming for Intel microcomputers: Which language was specifically created for low-level systems work on Intel-family microprocessors?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: During the early microcomputer era, Intel provided a high-level language aimed at firmware and operating system components while still keeping close to the hardware. Recognizing this historical language is part of computer history and systems knowledge. Given Data / Assumptions: Target platform: Intel-family microcomputers and microprocessors. Use case: systems programming (device drivers, monitors, low-level utilities). Concept / Approach: PL/M (Programming Language for Microcomputers) was developed by Gary Kildall for Intel. It combined high-level constructs with direct access to hardware ports and registers, making it a bridge between assembly and higher-level languages. Step-by-Step Solution: Identify the Intel-associated language: PL/M.Eliminate distractors that mimic naming but lack historical backing. Verification / Alternative check: Classic Intel software and early CP/M components were written in PL/M, confirming its role in the Intel ecosystem. Why Other Options Are Wrong: PL/C, PL/CT, PLA: either academic variants or unrelated acronyms; not Intel’s microcomputer systems language. None of the above: incorrect because PL/M is exactly right. Common Pitfalls: Confusing PL/M with PL/I; PL/I targeted mainframes, not early Intel micros. Final Answer: PL/M.

Question 3

Basic computing devices: Which of the following remains a useful manual tool for adding numbers even today?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Not all calculation tools are electronic. For centuries, people have used manual devices to perform arithmetic quickly and reliably. This question asks you to identify a tool that is still practically useful for addition drills and teaching number sense. Given Data / Assumptions: We want a device commonly used for arithmetic, especially addition. Practicality in education and mental-math training counts. Concept / Approach: The abacus is a bead-frame calculator. Operators manipulate beads to represent place values and perform addition, subtraction, and, with techniques, multiplication/division. Many schools still use it to teach arithmetic concepts and speed calculation. Step-by-Step Solution: Compare options: ENIAC, UNIVAC, and EDSAC are historic electronic computers—not manual adding tools.Identify the manual, portable adding device: abacus. Verification / Alternative check: Modern 'soroban' (Japanese abacus) competitions demonstrate rapid addition using bead manipulation, proving ongoing usefulness. Why Other Options Are Wrong: ENIAC, UNIVAC, EDSAC: room-sized, early electronic computers; not handheld adding tools. None of the above: incorrect because the abacus clearly qualifies. Common Pitfalls: Thinking of historic computers as generic 'adders'—they are impractical for everyday manual addition. Final Answer: Abacus.

Question 4

Binary arithmetic: What is the 1's complement (bitwise inversion) of the two-bit binary number 10?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: In digital logic, the 1's complement of a binary value is obtained by flipping every bit: zeros become ones and ones become zeros. It is a foundational operation in binary arithmetic, checksums, and two's-complement negation steps. Given Data / Assumptions: Number: '10' in binary, explicitly two bits long. Operation: 1's complement (bitwise NOT), not two's complement. Concept / Approach: Apply inversion to each bit independently. For a two-bit pattern, the left bit and right bit are processed the same way: 1 becomes 0, 0 becomes 1. Step-by-Step Solution: Write the original two-bit number: 1 0.Invert each bit: 1 → 0, 0 → 1.Concatenate the results to get 0 1, i.e., '01'. Verification / Alternative check: Using logical NOT (~) at the bit level confirms: ~(10₂) = 01₂ when the width is fixed at two bits. Why Other Options Are Wrong: 11: flips only the last bit incorrectly. 110: changes bit-width; not permitted for a two-bit representation. 10: unchanged; not a complement. None of the above: incorrect because '01' is correct. Common Pitfalls: Confusing 1's complement with 2's complement (which adds 1 after inversion). Accidentally changing the number of bits during the operation. Final Answer: 01.

Question 5

Number systems: Why do binary numbers generally require more digit places to represent the same quantity compared with decimal numbers?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Different positional numeral systems use different bases. The number of digits needed to express a fixed value depends strongly on the base (radix). Understanding this helps when estimating memory sizes and data widths in computing. Given Data / Assumptions: Binary uses base 2; decimal uses base 10. We compare how many digits (places) are needed for the same magnitude. Concept / Approach: In a positional system, the count of unique symbols per digit equals the base. Lower bases have fewer symbols per place, so more places are required to cover the same numeric range. Since binary has only two symbols (0 and 1), it needs more positions than decimal for equal values. Step-by-Step Solution: Take 255 in decimal: requires 3 digits (255).Express 255 in binary: 11111111₂ requires 8 digits.Reason: power growth is base^n; smaller base → slower growth per digit. Verification / Alternative check: Use logarithms: digits_needed ≈ floor(log_base(value)) + 1. For base 2, log2(255) ≈ 7.99 → 8 digits; for base 10, log10(255) ≈ 2.4 → 3 digits. Why Other Options Are Wrong: 'Always big numbers': representation length is about base, not size bias. Leading zeros: can be added in any base and do not explain typical length. Spacing requirement: physical spacing has nothing to do with digit count. None: incorrect because 'Binary base is small' explains it. Common Pitfalls: Confusing magnitude with representation method. Overlooking that octal/hex reduce length by using larger bases. Final Answer: Binary base is small.

Question 6

Computer memory usage: What do we call any form of storage used to hold information temporarily between processing steps (for example, buffers or working areas)?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: During data processing, systems often stage information between steps so that subsequent operations can proceed efficiently. This staging can occur in memory buffers, scratch files, or queues. The general term for this role is requested here. Given Data / Assumptions: Storage is temporary and used 'between steps'. Purpose is to bridge stages of a process or pipeline. Concept / Approach: Intermediate storage refers to temporary holding areas such as buffers, caches, spooling files, and scratch spaces. It is distinct from permanent storage (disks for long-term) and from the CPU (which executes instructions). Step-by-Step Solution: Identify key phrase: 'between steps in processing' → staging/temporary holding.Match to term: 'Intermediate storage'. Verification / Alternative check: Examples include print spooling (disk-based intermediate storage) and message queues between microservices, each temporarily holding data until the next stage consumes it. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Primary storage: usually means main memory (RAM) generically; not necessarily tied to between-step staging. Internal storage: vague; could mean on-board memory. CPU: processing unit, not storage. None: incorrect because 'Intermediate storage' is the proper descriptor. Common Pitfalls: Equating any RAM with intermediate storage; the term is functional, not strictly hardware-based. Final Answer: Intermediate storage.

Question 7

Semiconductor terminology: Intel's name for a high-speed metal–oxide–semiconductor (MOS) fabrication technology is what?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Chip makers brand their process technologies. Intel historically used a named MOS process family for faster, denser integrated circuits. Knowing these acronyms helps separate hardware process terms from unrelated networking acronyms. Given Data / Assumptions: We need Intel’s label for high-speed MOS technology. Do not confuse with communication protocols that have similar-looking abbreviations. Concept / Approach: HMOS stands for High-density (or High-speed) MOS. It described Intel process improvements that increased speed and integration density over earlier NMOS processes. Step-by-Step Solution: Select the acronym associated with semiconductor process technology (HMOS).Discard protocol-related acronyms (HDLC, SDLC, LAP) that belong to data link standards. Verification / Alternative check: Intel datasheets from the HMOS era reference HMOS I/II/III processes for CPUs and peripheral ICs. Why Other Options Are Wrong: HDLC, SDLC, LAP: High-level Data Link Control, Synchronous Data Link Control, and Link Access Procedure—telecom protocols, not fabrication technologies. None: incorrect because HMOS is correct. Common Pitfalls: Assuming any familiar acronym relates to chips; many are networking terms. Final Answer: HMOS.

Question 8

Data handling: A datum used to mark or signal an important state in an input or output stream—often to indicate the end or a special condition—is called what?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Algorithms often need a special marker to denote boundaries or exceptional states in data streams or arrays. Using a unique value prevents extra condition checks within loops and simplifies parsing logic. Given Data / Assumptions: The datum indicates an important state (e.g., end-of-file, end-of-list). It exists within input/output or data structures. Concept / Approach: A sentinel value is a distinguished element that signals a condition such as termination. Classic examples include the null terminator '\0' in C strings and a sentinel node in linked lists to simplify edge-case handling. Step-by-Step Solution: Map the phrase 'indicates some important state' to 'sentinel value' terminology.Choose 'Sentinel' among the options. Verification / Alternative check: Algorithms like linear search with a sentinel append a known marker to the end of an array to avoid bounds checks on each iteration. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Sequence: denotes order, not a special marker. SIO: generic acronym (e.g., serial I/O), not a marker value. Sibling: tree relationship term, unrelated. None: incorrect because 'Sentinel' is exact. Common Pitfalls: Choosing an in-band sentinel that collides with valid data; robust designs pick impossible values or add explicit length fields. Final Answer: Sentinel.

Question 9

Computer architecture basics: Which component is commonly called the “brain” of a computer system because it fetches, decodes, and executes instructions?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: The phrase “brain of the computer” is a popular way to describe the part of a system that coordinates and performs instruction execution. Knowing the precise component associated with this role is fundamental to computer organization. Given Data / Assumptions: The component oversees fetch–decode–execute. It integrates arithmetic/logic and control sequencing. Concept / Approach: The Central Processing Unit (CPU) encompasses the control unit and the Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU), and often register files and caches. It orchestrates instruction flow, performs operations, and interfaces with memory and I/O. Step-by-Step Solution: Identify the entity responsible for overall instruction execution → CPU.Note: ALU and control unit are subcomponents within the CPU; memory stores data but does not execute instructions. Verification / Alternative check: Any CPU block diagram shows the control unit directing the ALU and registers while communicating over buses—hence the metaphor “brain.” Why Other Options Are Wrong: ALU: performs arithmetic/logic only. Control unit: sequences operations but lacks the complete processing role alone. Memory: stores instructions/data; does not process them. None: incorrect because CPU is correct. Common Pitfalls: Assuming ALU equals CPU; the CPU comprises multiple cooperating units. Final Answer: CPU.

Question 10

Programming languages: Which option represents a non-standard, incorrect spelling/variant of a well-known computing language name?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Several classic languages have precise names and spellings. Using the wrong character can change meaning or indicate a non-standard, unofficial variant. This question targets a common confusion between a digit and a letter in a language name. Given Data / Assumptions: We compare options against established, standardized language names. We look for a non-standard version or incorrect form. Concept / Approach: IBM’s language is officially named PL/I (Programming Language One), where the final character is the uppercase letter 'I', not the digit '1'. Writing 'PL/1' with the numeral 1 is a widespread but non-standard misprint and therefore represents a non-standard version of the name. Step-by-Step Solution: Check each option against standardized names: APL and PROLOG are correctly spelled standard languages.Identify the misspelled language variant: PL/1 (should be PL/I). Verification / Alternative check: IBM documentation, standard texts, and compilers uniformly use PL/I. The roman numeral I denotes “one.” Why Other Options Are Wrong: APL: A Programming Language—standard name. PROLOG: logic programming language—standard name. ARMY: not a recognized mainstream language name in this context; however, the specific target of 'non-standard version' is the incorrect spelling of PL/I. None of the above: incorrect because PL/1 is indeed a non-standard spelling. Common Pitfalls: Overlooking typographical details (letter I vs. numeral 1) that change correctness. Final Answer: PL/1.

Question 11

In teleprinter communication (Murray/baudot-based telegraph systems), how many bits per character does the Murray code use for encoding?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Murray code, a refinement of the original Baudot telegraph code, was widely used in teleprinter (TELEX) machines to represent letters, digits, and control functions. Understanding how many bits per character it uses is foundational for studying classic data communications, character sets, and bandwidth calculations in early digital systems. Given Data / Assumptions: The system is a teleprinter using Murray (Baudot-derived) code. We are asked for the number of bits per character used by this code. No parity or stop bits are included in the count; we focus on the code symbol length itself. Concept / Approach: Murray/International Telegraph Alphabet No. 2 (ITA2) represents each character using a fixed-length code word. Unlike ASCII (7-bit) or EBCDIC (8-bit), Murray code is a 5-bit code. Because 5 bits allow only 32 patterns, teleprinters use mode shift mechanisms (Letters and Figures) to extend the usable character set without increasing the bit-length per symbol. Step-by-Step Solution: Identify the legacy teleprinter standard used: Murray/ITA2.Recall that the Murray code symbol is a fixed 5-bit word.Note that additional control (shift to Letters/Figures) expands the set without changing the 5-bit length.Therefore, the correct number of bits per character is 5. Verification / Alternative check: Compare to other encodings: ASCII uses 7 bits; EBCDIC uses 8 bits. Telegraph-era Murray/ITA2 uses 5 bits plus shifts, consistent with historical teleprinter documentation and line-speed calculations (e.g., 50 baud Telex with start/stop framing around 5-bit payloads). Why Other Options Are Wrong: 4: Too few for Murray; would yield only 16 patterns. 9 or 25: Far larger than required and not historically used in teleprinters. None of the above: Incorrect because 5 is precisely correct. Common Pitfalls: Confusing data word length with framed character length (which may include start/stop bits), or mixing Murray/ITA2 with ASCII/EBCDIC bit-widths. Final Answer: 5

Question 12

In systems programming, which translator converts assembly language source code into executable machine code for a specific processor architecture?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Low-level programming often uses assembly language, a human-readable notation closely tied to a CPU's instruction set. Turning this assembly into machine code requires the correct type of translator. Knowing whether a compiler, interpreter, or assembler is used is a fundamental software engineering concept. Given Data / Assumptions: Input language: assembly language (mnemonics like MOV, ADD, JMP). Target: machine code (binary opcodes and operands for the specific CPU). We need the translator that maps mnemonics and addressing modes directly to opcodes. Concept / Approach: An assembler reads symbolic assembly language and produces object code (machine code) by converting mnemonics to opcodes and resolving labels to addresses. A compiler targets machine code from high-level languages, and an interpreter executes code line by line without producing a standalone binary in the same way. A comparator is unrelated to translation; it compares data or files. Step-by-Step Solution: Identify the source: assembly language.Match tool to task: assembly → assembler (not compiler/interpreter).Assembler outputs machine code and may generate listing and symbol tables.Therefore, the correct translator is the assembler. Verification / Alternative check: Toolchains typically run: assembler → linker → loader for assembly projects. High-level projects instead use compilers before linking. This pipeline confirms that assembly requires an assembler stage. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Compiler: Translates high-level languages (e.g., C, Pascal) to machine code. Interpreter: Executes source statements directly or via bytecode, not pure assembly to binary. Comparator: Not a translator; used for comparisons. None of the above: Incorrect because assembler is exactly right. Common Pitfalls: Assuming compilers handle assembly too; while some compilers accept inline assembly, assembling proper source files remains the assembler's role. Final Answer: Assembler

Question 13

In binary arithmetic, the two's complement of a number is obtained by adding which quantity to its one's complement?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Two's complement is the dominant system for representing signed integers in digital computers. It simplifies arithmetic hardware and unifies addition and subtraction. Converting a binary value to its two's complement form is a key skill in computer organization and low-level programming. Given Data / Assumptions: Start with a binary number. Compute its one's complement by inverting every bit (0 ↔ 1). Determine what to add to obtain the two's complement representation. Concept / Approach: By definition, two's complement is formed by taking the one's complement and adding 1. This method yields the negative of the original number in two's complement arithmetic and supports seamless addition with carry propagation, avoiding separate subtraction circuitry. Step-by-Step Solution: Given binary N: produce one's complement N' by flipping bits.Compute two's complement as N_T = N' + 1.Therefore, the quantity to add to the one's complement is 1.Example: For 00101 (5), one's complement is 11010; adding 1 gives 11011, the two's complement (−5 in 5-bit representation). Verification / Alternative check: Hardware ALUs implement subtraction A − B as A + (two's complement of B). The consistent rule is invert B and add 1, confirming the 1 addition step is essential. Why Other Options Are Wrong: 0: Adding zero leaves the one's complement unchanged; that is not two's complement. 10 or 12: These are not meaningful scalars in this context; the operation is specifically +1 in binary. None of the above: Incorrect because adding 1 is the exact rule. Common Pitfalls: Forgetting to add the 1 after inversion, or confusing sign-magnitude with two's complement representation. Always invert then add 1. Final Answer: 1

Question 14

In software engineering, what do we call a program specifically used to develop, repair, test, or enhance other programs and their artifacts?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Modern development relies on specialized programs that help build, analyze, test, and improve other software. Identifying the umbrella term for such supportive programs is important for understanding toolchains and software life-cycle management. Given Data / Assumptions: We need a term for programs used in development, repair, or enhancement of other programs. Examples include debuggers, profilers, version control clients, and build systems. We must distinguish from general runtime system components or end-user apps. Concept / Approach: Software tools are programs that support software construction and maintenance. While utilities are often small system aids (disk cleanup, compression), the broader and more precise category encompassing IDEs, compilers, linkers, debuggers, static analyzers, and refactoring assistants is software tools. System software (like operating systems or drivers) provides runtime services but is not primarily authored to develop other programs. Applications programs serve end-user needs. Step-by-Step Solution: Map the described purpose to category names.Development, repair, enhancement → software engineering support → software tools.Confirm that utilities and system software do not fully capture the scope.Therefore, choose ‘‘Software tool.’’ Verification / Alternative check: Toolchains and DevOps pipelines are commonly described as collections of software tools (e.g., compiler + linter + test runner + CI). The term is standard in textbooks and professional practice. Why Other Options Are Wrong: System software: Focuses on OS and low-level services rather than building other programs. Applications program: End-user focused, not primarily for developing software. Utility program: Narrower scope; may be part of tools but not the comprehensive term. None of the above: Incorrect because software tool fits precisely. Common Pitfalls: Equating utilities with the full development environment. Utilities are a subset; software tools is the accurate umbrella term. Final Answer: Software tool

Question 15

Compared with earlier generations, what is the key distinguishing feature of fifth-generation computer systems?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Computer generations are broadly classified by major technological shifts. The fifth generation is associated with advanced technologies such as very large-scale integration (VLSI/ULSI), massively parallel processing, knowledge-based systems, and artificial intelligence methods, including natural-language interfaces and logic programming. Given Data / Assumptions: We are comparing fifth-generation systems to earlier generations. Options include programming styles and a general statement of technological advancement. We seek the most accurate and inclusive differentiator. Concept / Approach: Fifth-generation computing is defined by technology goals and advances rather than a single language or paradigm. Hallmarks include AI techniques, advanced human–computer interaction, and hardware enabling inference and knowledge representation. While object-oriented programming and scientific coding exist, they are not unique to the fifth generation nor broadly definitive of the generational change. Step-by-Step Solution: Identify core differentiator: shift in underlying technology and capability.Eliminate narrow or non-defining traits (scientific code, OOP existed earlier).Conclude that ‘‘Technological advancement’’ captures the essence: AI orientation, VLSI/ULSI, parallelism, expert systems. Verification / Alternative check: Historical initiatives (e.g., Japan's Fifth Generation Computer Systems project) targeted AI and knowledge processing, reflecting a technology-driven definition rather than a programming syntax feature. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Scientific code: Present in many generations; not distinctive. Object Oriented Programming: Emerged earlier and spans multiple generations; not exclusive to the fifth. All of the above: Incorrect because not all listed traits uniquely define the fifth generation. None of the above: Incorrect since technological advancement is the correct distinguishing feature. Common Pitfalls: Assuming one language or paradigm defines a generation. Generations hinge on hardware and architectural leaps with accompanying system-level goals. Final Answer: Technological advancement

Question 16

In computer operations, which term refers to evacuating or copying out the contents of a memory or device section for analysis, backup, or diagnosis?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: System administrators and developers often need a snapshot of memory or device contents to diagnose faults, preserve state, or analyze crashes. This process has a specific term widely used in operating systems, databases, and embedded systems. Given Data / Assumptions: Action: evacuating or copying contents from a memory/device section. Context: troubleshooting, analysis, backup, or post-mortem. We seek the precise operational term. Concept / Approach: A dump is a captured image or listing of memory or storage contents. Examples include core dumps (process memory after a crash), heap dumps, database dumps (logical data export), and firmware dumps. The term emphasizes extraction rather than transformation or improvement. Step-by-Step Solution: Map the described action (evacuate/copy contents) to terminology.Recognize standard usage: memory dump, core dump, database dump.Select ‘‘Dump’’ as the correct term. Verification / Alternative check: Common tools (e.g., gcore, jmap, mysqldump) reflect the conventional term dump, confirming industry-wide usage. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Enhancement: Implies improvement, not extraction. Down: Informal, not a technical term for data evacuation. Compiler: Translates high-level code to machine code; unrelated. None of the above: Incorrect because dump is exact. Common Pitfalls: Confusing backup with dump; while both copy data, dump typically captures raw or structured internal state for analysis rather than routine backup alone. Final Answer: Dump

Question 17

Within the CPU, which component interprets program instructions and initiates the necessary control signals to coordinate execution?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: The central processing unit (CPU) orchestrates instruction execution through distinct functional blocks. Understanding which block decodes instructions and issues timing and control signals is fundamental to computer architecture. Given Data / Assumptions: We are focusing on the CPU's internal roles. The component must interpret instructions and initiate control operations. Options include input/storage/logic/control units. Concept / Approach: The Control Unit (CU) fetches instructions from memory, decodes them, and generates control signals to direct data paths, ALU operations, memory access, and I/O coordination. The Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU) performs arithmetic/logic but does not decode or sequence instructions. Input and storage units are outside this decoding/coordination role. Step-by-Step Solution: Identify the task: interpret instructions + initiate control operations.Map to CPU blocks: this is the Control Unit's responsibility.Therefore select ‘‘Control unit.’’ Verification / Alternative check: Instruction cycle: fetch → decode (CU) → execute (CU directs ALU/memory). This standard pipeline confirms the CU's role. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Input: External data entry; not instruction control. Storage unit: Memory/registers; store data/instructions, not decode. Logic unit: Executes operations but takes cues from the CU. None of the above: Incorrect because CU is correct. Common Pitfalls: Attributing instruction interpretation to the ALU. The ALU executes operations; the CU decides which operations and when. Final Answer: Control unit

Question 18

In the context of programming languages, which language among the following has been traditionally used in artificial intelligence research for knowledge representation and logical inference?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Artificial intelligence (AI) has historically leveraged languages that support symbolic reasoning, pattern matching, and rule-based inference. Selecting the language aligned with AI research helps understand classic AI systems and their implementation styles. Given Data / Assumptions: We are asked to identify a language used specifically for AI tasks. Options include general-purpose scientific/business languages and a logic programming language. Focus is on knowledge representation and logical inference. Concept / Approach: PROLOG (PROgramming in LOGic) is a declarative, logic programming language grounded in predicate calculus. It excels at expressing rules, facts, and relationships, enabling backtracking search and unification—capabilities central to many classic AI applications such as expert systems and natural-language prototypes. Step-by-Step Solution: Identify AI-oriented paradigms: logic programming fits well.Among options, PROLOG uniquely embodies logic programming for AI.Therefore choose PROLOG. Verification / Alternative check: Historic AI curricula pair LISP and PROLOG; both are canonical in AI. Given these options, PROLOG is the direct match. Why Other Options Are Wrong: FORTRAN: Numerical/scientific computing; not primarily AI logic representation. C: Systems programming; powerful but not specialized for symbolic inference. COBOL: Business data processing; not AI-focused. None of the above: Incorrect because PROLOG is correct. Common Pitfalls: Assuming any popular language is equally suited for AI logic. While modern AI uses many languages, the historical, conceptual match here is PROLOG. Final Answer: PROLOG

Question 19

In assembly language programming, the symbolic operation codes and operands used to represent machine instructions are called what?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Assembly language provides a human-readable layer over raw opcodes by using symbolic names. Knowing the proper term for these symbolic instruction names and operand descriptors is essential for low-level programming. Given Data / Assumptions: We discuss symbols used in assembly language. These symbols stand for machine instructions or addressing forms. We need the precise terminology. Concept / Approach: Mnemonics are short, memorable tokens (e.g., MOV, ADD, SUB, JMP) that correspond directly to machine instructions. Operands can be registers, immediates, or memory references, also expressed symbolically. The assembler later translates mnemonics and symbolic labels into opcodes and addresses. Step-by-Step Solution: Identify what the symbols represent: instruction names and operands.Map to recognized term: mnemonics for operations; symbols/labels for addresses.Therefore, the correct answer is ‘‘Mnemonics.’’ Verification / Alternative check: Any assembly listing or reference manual uses mnemonics as the canonical human-readable instruction identifiers. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Codes: Too generic; does not specifically mean assembly instruction words. Assembler: The tool that translates mnemonics; not the symbols themselves. All of the above: Incorrect because only mnemonics precisely fits. None of the above: Incorrect since mnemonics is correct. Common Pitfalls: Confusing the assembler (the program) with the mnemonic (the symbolic instruction). The assembler consumes mnemonics. Final Answer: Mnemonics

Question 20

In data communications, which method historically allows a user to connect to a remote computer over the public switched telephone network using a modem?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Before ubiquitous broadband and always-on networking, remote computer access commonly relied on analog telephone lines and modems. Knowing the term for this connection method is part of basic networking history and terminology. Given Data / Assumptions: Goal: connect to a remote computer. Medium: public switched telephone network (PSTN) via modem. We seek the recognized name for this method. Concept / Approach: Dialup networking uses a modem to modulate digital data onto analog phone lines and demodulate at the other end. The connection is established by dialing a phone number, often authenticated by terminal servers or ISP access servers, providing terminal sessions or IP connectivity (PPP/SLIP). Step-by-Step Solution: Identify legacy remote access scenario using phone lines.Recognize that a dialed telephone call is the key characteristic.Select the term ‘‘Dialup’’ for such connections. Verification / Alternative check: Historical ISPs provided dialup numbers; operating systems shipped with dialup networking clients. The term was standard across documentation and user guides. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Device: A generic noun, not a connection method. Diagnostic: Refers to testing/troubleshooting, not connectivity. Logic circuit: Digital hardware concept, not networking method. None of the above: Incorrect because dialup is exactly the right term. Common Pitfalls: Confusing dialup with leased lines or broadband. Dialup is on-demand, telephone-number-based, with limited bandwidth (e.g., 56 kbps maximum under ideal conditions). Final Answer: Dialup

Computer Fundamentals Questions