Difficulty: Easy
Correct Answer: 32 bit
Explanation:
Introduction / Context:
Word length is a basic concept in computer architecture and digital design. It describes how many bits a processor can handle as a single unit when performing operations such as arithmetic or logic. For personal computers, word length is closely related to how much data the CPU can process at once, how large memory addresses can be and how efficiently software runs. Competitive exams often ask about the typical word length of general purpose personal computers.
Given Data / Assumptions:
Concept / Approach:
Word length is the size of the registers and the width of the CPU data bus. Historically, early microcomputers used 8 bit and 16 bit word lengths. Later, 32 bit architecture, such as the Intel 80386 and its successors, became the standard for personal computers for many years. Although 64 bit processors are now common, most computer fundamentals books still describe 32 bit as the classic word length of a personal computer, because this architecture dominated for a long period and is widely taught.
Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Understand that word length is the number of bits the CPU processes in one instruction cycle, often matching the size of general purpose registers.
Step 2: Recognise that early microprocessors were 4 bit and 8 bit, mainly used in calculators and very simple systems, not in modern personal computers.
Step 3: 16 bit processors such as the Intel 8086 and 80286 were used in early PCs, but they have been largely replaced by wider architectures.
Step 4: For many years, mainstream PCs have used 32 bit processors, such as the Intel 80386, 80486 and the Pentium family, and exam syllabi often quote 32 bit as the word length of a personal computer.
Step 5: 64 bit processors are now common, but computer fundamentals questions usually treat them as a later development and continue to emphasise 32 bit as the standard educational answer.
Step 6: Comparing the options, 32 bit best matches the traditional description of a personal computer's word length in exam oriented material.
Verification / Alternative check:
Architecture diagrams for classic PC processors show 32 bit wide registers such as EAX, EBX and ECX. Operating systems like 32 bit versions of Windows are designed around a 32 bit word length. Many introductory computer books explicitly state that the word length of a personal computer is 32 bits. Even though 64 bit systems are now widespread, exam questions that use this wording typically expect 32 bit as the answer because it reflects long established teaching material.
Why Other Options Are Wrong:
4 bit and 8 bit word lengths describe very early microprocessors and embedded controllers, not standard personal computers. 16 bit processors did appear in early IBM PC compatible machines but were replaced by 32 bit designs, which became the long time norm. 64 bit is widely used today, but in many general knowledge exams the phrase word length of a personal computer is still associated with 32 bit processors. Therefore, the best educationally correct choice is 32 bit.
Common Pitfalls:
A common confusion arises because candidates know that many modern CPUs are 64 bit, so they quickly choose that option without considering the typical wording used in their textbooks. When a question sounds like it comes from basic computer fundamentals, it often reflects older but stable information. To avoid mistakes, always relate such questions to what your syllabus emphasises, which in this case is 32 bit word length for personal computers.
Final Answer:
The word length of a typical personal computer is commonly described as 32 bit in computer fundamentals.
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