Question

What part of the computer serves as a work area to store a program and its data while the program is running?

Short answer

Answer: RAM (Random Access Memory)

Step-by-step solution

Identify and understand the different parts of a computer

To solve this problem, first, we must understand the basic parts or components of a computer. Some main components include the CPU (Central Processing Unit), memory (RAM), storage devices (hard disks, SSD), and the motherboard.

Explain the function of the CPU

The CPU (Central Processing Unit) is the main processing component in a computer. It's responsible for executing instructions and processing data. However, it does not directly store programs or data while they are running. Therefore, it's not the correct answer to the exercise.

Explain the function of the memory (RAM)

The memory, or RAM (Random Access Memory), is used to store temporary data, such as programs and their associated data, while they are running. When a program is launched, it is loaded into RAM along with its data, making it easily accessible by the CPU. Since RAM stores data only temporarily and loses it when power is turned off, it is also known as volatile memory.

Explain the function of storage devices

Storage devices, such as hard disks and solid-state drives (SSDs), are used to store data permanently. They hold the operating system, applications, and other files even when the computer is switched off. However, since their main purpose is long-term storage and not to store data while a program is running, they are not the correct answer to this exercise.

Identify the correct component for the exercise

Since we have established that RAM is the part of the computer which stores temporary data like programs and their associated data while they are running, RAM is the correct answer to this exercise. So, the part of the computer that serves as a work area to store a program and its data while the program is running is the RAM (Random Access Memory).