Question

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

Short answer

Answer: RAM (Random Access Memory)

Step-by-step solution

Understand the types of memory

There are two primary types of memory in a computer: volatile and non-volatile memory. Volatile memory loses its stored data when the power is turned off, whereas non-volatile memory retains its data even without power. The most common volatile memory is RAM (Random Access Memory), and the most common non-volatile memory is ROM (Read-Only Memory). In this case, the focus will be on the volatile memory, i.e., RAM, as programs are usually loaded into it for execution by the CPU.

Understand how RAM works with CPU

When a computer runs a program, the CPU retrieves the required data and instructions from the main memory, which is the RAM. The RAM stores programs that are currently being executed or are about to be executed. This is because RAM is quicker than other types of memory, allowing the CPU to access the needed data much faster.

Determine the type of memory required

A program has to be copied into the volatile memory (RAM) each time the CPU executes it. This is because RAM is the main working memory that interacts with the CPU, allowing it to access and process the data efficiently. When the CPU needs to run a program, it copies the program's instructions and data from the storage device (such as a hard disk) to RAM.