CS Flashcards
What is the definition of Hardware?
The physical components of a computer system, including internal hardware (e.g., motherboard, ventilation fans) and external hardware (e.g., monitor, keyboard)
Internal hardware refers to components inside the computer, while external hardware refers to peripherals connected to it.
Define the term Software.
The ‘virtual’, non-physical part of a computer system, describing applications, scripts, and programs that run a device
It is a compilation of lines of code that create a computer program.
What is a Peripheral?
A physical external device that provides input or output for a computer, also called I/O devices
Examples include mouse, monitor, and keyboard.
Define the term Network.
A collection of devices connected for the purpose of sharing data and information, which can be as small as two devices
Common types include local area network (LAN) and wide area network (WAN).
What are Human resources in the context of computer systems?
The end users of the computer system or the department responsible for managing resources related to computer systems.
What is computational thinking used for?
Provides us with the tools to devise algorithms to solve problems.
List the components of the IB model of computational thinking.
- Thinking procedurally
- Thinking logically
- Thinking abstractly
- Thinking ahead
- Thinking concurrently
Define algorithm.
A series of unambiguous instructions designed to solve a problem and achieve a certain goal in a finite number of steps
Can be represented through pseudocode, flow charts, and programming language.
What is meant by Thinking procedurally?
It’s a procedure that involves step-by-step instructions where the steps matter, possibly including sub-procedures.
Define Thinking abstractly.
A mental model that involves removing non-essential characteristics to focus on the essential aspects.
Give a real-world example of abstraction.
Abstract Art, a Map
These examples simplify complex realities to highlight key features.
What is the need for higher level language?
It is easier to understand, has fewer errors, is easier to debug and maintain, and avoids tediousness.
List the features of a higher level language.
- Mimics natural language
- Easy to use
- Simpler program development
- Faster and more understandable
Define Machine language.
A language made of 0s and 1s, the only language a computer can process, which is hard to write and difficult to debug and maintain.
What is Assembly language?
A language where binary code is replaced by instructions and references to address locations using symbols called mnemonics.
How does a Compiler function?
Executes translation only once and communicates syntax errors at the end after checking the entire program.
What is an Interpreter?
Runs slowly, starts straight away, and lets you see results immediately.
Define a variable.
A storage location used to store a value, identified by a name that can change during program execution.
What is an operator?
Used to manipulate operands, such as in the expression 2 + 3, where + is the operator.
Define the operator =.
Is equal to.
Define the operator <.
Is less than.
Define the operator >.
Is greater than.
Define the operator <=.
Is less than or equal to.
Define the operator >=.
Is greater than or equal to.
Define the operator Mod.
Modulo, which gives the remainder when dividing two numbers.
Define the operator Div.
Division, where if the answer has a decimal, only the integer part is considered.
