Question

When a CPU executes the instructions in a program, it is engaged in what process?

Short answer

Answer: The CPU goes through the "Fetch-Decode-Execute" cycle, also known as the Instruction Cycle, when executing the instructions in a program.

Step-by-step solution

Understand CPU and its role

A CPU (Central Processing Unit) is the main component of a computer system that carries out instructions and operations of a program. When a program runs, the CPU fetches and executes each instruction in the program in a specific order.

Identify the process the CPU goes through when executing instructions

The process a CPU goes through when executing instructions can be described as the "Fetch-Decode-Execute" cycle, also known as the Instruction Cycle. The CPU continually repeats this cycle as long as the computer is running.

Break down the Fetch-Decode-Execute cycle

The Fetch-Decode-Execute cycle has three main stages: 1. Fetch: In this stage, the CPU fetches the instruction from memory (RAM) and stores it in the Instruction Register (IR). 2. Decode: The CPU decodes the instruction in the IR to determine what operation needs to be performed. 3. Execute: The CPU performs the required operation, like arithmetic or logic operations, data movement between registers and memory, or controlling other parts of the computer system. The CPU then moves on to the next instruction in the program, going through the Fetch-Decode-Execute cycle again.

Provide the answer to the given exercise

When a CPU executes the instructions in a program, it is engaged in the "Fetch-Decode-Execute" cycle, also known as the Instruction Cycle.