What is a processor (CPU)?
The CPU is the computer’s “brain” — it carries out instructions and runs programs.
What is a single-core processor?
A CPU with only one core that can only process one task at a time.
How does a single-core processor handle multiple tasks?
It switches quickly between tasks using time slicing, making it look like multitasking.
Give an example to explain a single-core processor.
Like one person trying to cook, clean, and do homework — only one task can be done at a time.
What is a multi-core processor?
A CPU with two or more cores that can process multiple tasks at the same time.
How does a multi-core processor handle tasks?
Each core can work on a different task — this is called parallel processing.
give an example to explain a multi-core processor.
Like four people each doing a different job — everything gets done faster.
What are the advantages of a single-core processor?
Simple, cheaper, and fine for basic tasks or older software.
What are the advantages of a multi-core processor?
Faster at multitasking, better for modern software and complex jobs like gaming or video editing.
What’s one limitation of multi-core processors?
Some programs aren’t designed to use multiple cores, so performance gains may be limited.
What is pipelining?
A way of speeding up the CPU by working on several instructions at once — like an assembly line.
How does the Von Neumann bottleneck affect pipelining?
It can make the pipeline stop and wait if the CPU can’t get data or instructions quickly enough.
Why does CISC make the Von Neumann bottleneck worse?
Because CISC instructions often need to get more data from memory, using up the same pathway.
Why is pipelining harder with CISC CPUs?
Because CISC instructions take different amounts of time, so the pipeline doesn’t run smoothly.
What happens when the pipeline has to wait for data?
it “stalls,” meaning it pauses and slows down.
how are CISC, pipelining, and the Von Neumann bottleneck linked?
CISC uses more memory, which causes bottlenecks and makes pipelining less effective.
