Question

A program has to be copied into what type of memory each time the CPU executes it?

Short answer

Answer: Primary memory (RAM)

Step-by-step solution

Understand the computer memory hierarchy

The computer memory hierarchy consists of several types of memory, including registers, cache memory, primary memory (RAM), and secondary memory (hard disk, SSD). These memory types differ in their speed, capacity, and proximity to the CPU.

Recognize the role of primary memory (RAM)

Primary memory, also known as Random Access Memory (RAM), is a type of volatile memory directly accessible by the CPU. RAM temporarily stores data and program instructions during program execution, allowing the CPU to quickly access and process this information.

Understand the process of program execution

When a program is executed, it is first loaded from secondary storage (hard drive or SSD) into the primary memory (RAM). The CPU then fetches, decodes, and executes the program instructions stored in RAM, one at a time.

Identify the relevant memory type for program execution

Based on the understanding of the memory hierarchy and the program execution process, it can be concluded that a program has to be copied into the primary memory (RAM) each time the CPU executes it. This is because RAM provides the necessary fast and direct access to the program instructions for efficient execution by the CPU.