Arrange the following computer memory types from fastest to slowest speed: (A)…
2022
Arrange the following computer memory types from fastest to slowest speed:
(A) Hard Disk
(B) Main Memory (RAM)
(C) CD-ROM
(D) CPU Registers
(E) Cache Memory
Choose the correct answer from the options given below :
Answer: D. (D), (E), (B), (A), (C) — ConceptA memory hierarchy orders storage by access latency and proximity to the CPU. Small on-chip storage is accessed fastest; semiconductor main memory…
- A.
(D), (C), (A), (B), (E)
- B.
(A), (C), (B), (D), (E)
- C.
(E), (D), (B), (A), (C)
- D.
(D), (E), (B), (A), (C)
Attempted by 51 students.
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: D
Concept
A memory hierarchy orders storage by access latency and proximity to the CPU.
Small on-chip storage is accessed fastest; semiconductor main memory follows, while electromechanical and optical storage are slower.
Application
CPU registers are inside the processor and hold operands being used immediately, so they have the lowest access latency.
Cache memory is a small, fast layer near the processor that keeps frequently used data and instructions.
Main memory (RAM) supplies the working data set but has greater access latency than cache.
A hard disk requires mechanical positioning and is slower than semiconductor memory.
CD-ROM uses optical access and is the slowest device in this set.
Cross-check
The technologies change in the same direction as latency: processor registers, cache, RAM, magnetic disk, then optical disc.
Result
Therefore the fastest-to-slowest order is CPU registers → cache memory → main memory (RAM) → hard disk → CD-ROM.