Memory and Storage Practice Questions
GCSE · GCSE Computer Science · 151 free MCQs with instant results and detailed explanations.
151
Total
49
Easy
76
Medium
26
Hard
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Sample Questions from Memory and Storage
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Q1
Easy
What is the primary function of RAM in a computer system?
A.
To store data permanently
B.
To store data temporarily for quick access
C.
To manage network connections
D.
To execute software applications
Show Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: B
RAM (Random Access Memory) is used for temporary storage, allowing the CPU quick access to data that is actively being used by applications.
Q2
Easy
Which of the following is an example of secondary storage?
A.
CPU
B.
RAM
C.
Hard Disk Drive
D.
Cache Memory
Show Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: C
A Hard Disk Drive (HDD) is an example of secondary storage, which is used for long-term data storage, unlike RAM and cache memory which are used for temporary storage.
Q3
Easy
If a computer's hard drive has a capacity of 1 TB, how much data can it hold in gigabytes?
A.
512 GB
B.
1024 GB
C.
2048 GB
D.
100 GB
Show Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: B
1 TB (Terabyte) is equal to 1024 GB (Gigabytes), hence a hard drive with a capacity of 1 TB can hold 1024 GB of data.
Q4
Medium
Which type of memory is volatile and loses its data when the power is turned off?
A.
RAM
B.
ROM
C.
Flash Memory
D.
Hard Drive
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Correct Answer: A
RAM (Random Access Memory) is volatile memory, meaning it requires power to maintain the stored information. When the power is lost, all data in RAM is erased.
Q5
Medium
Which of the following storage devices is best suited for high speed and frequent read/write operations?
A.
Hard Disk Drive (HDD)
B.
Solid State Drive (SSD)
C.
Optical Disc
D.
USB Flash Drive
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Correct Answer: B
Solid State Drives (SSDs) are designed for high speed and efficiency, making them ideal for frequent read/write operations compared to HDDs and other storage types.
Q6
Medium
If a computer has 8 GB of RAM and runs a 32-bit operating system, what is the maximum usable memory for applications?
A.
4 GB
B.
8 GB
C.
16 GB
D.
2 GB
Show Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: A
A 32-bit operating system can only address a maximum of 4 GB of RAM, regardless of the physical amount installed. Thus, only 4 GB is usable for applications.
Q7
Medium
What is the primary difference between RAM and ROM?
A.
RAM is non-volatile, while ROM is volatile.
B.
RAM is used for temporary data storage, while ROM stores permanent data.
C.
RAM is faster than ROM in all situations.
D.
ROM can be easily rewritten, while RAM cannot.
Show Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: B
RAM is used for temporary data storage that is lost when power is off, while ROM (Read-Only Memory) is used to store permanent data that does not change.
Q8
Hard
What is the primary purpose of RAM in a computer system?
A.
To permanently store user data and applications.
B.
To temporarily hold data for quick access during processing.
C.
To manage input and output devices.
D.
To provide power to the computer.
Show Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: B
RAM (Random Access Memory) is used to temporarily hold data and instructions that the CPU needs while executing tasks. This allows for quick read and write access, significantly speeding up processing compared to permanent storage.
Q9
Hard
If a computer has a total storage capacity of 500 GB, how much storage space is left after 200 GB is used for applications and files?
A.
300 GB
B.
200 GB
C.
500 GB
D.
700 GB
Show Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: A
After using 200 GB of the total 500 GB storage, the remaining space can be calculated as follows: 500 GB - 200 GB = 300 GB. Therefore, 300 GB is left.
Q10
Hard
Which of the following statements accurately describes the difference between RAM and ROM?
A.
RAM is non-volatile and can be used to store permanent data, while ROM is volatile and stores temporary data.
B.
RAM is volatile and used for temporary data storage, while ROM is non-volatile and used for permanent data storage.
C.
Both RAM and ROM are volatile, but RAM is faster than ROM.
D.
ROM can be easily modified, while RAM cannot be changed once data is written.
Show Answer & Explanation
Correct Answer: B
RAM (Random Access Memory) is volatile memory used for temporary data storage while the computer is on, meaning it loses its contents when power is lost. ROM (Read-Only Memory), however, is non-volatile and retains its data even when the power is turned off, primarily storing firmware and essential system instructions.
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Memory and Storage — GCSE GCSE Computer Science Practice Questions Online
This page contains 151 practice MCQs for the chapter Memory and Storage in GCSE GCSE Computer Science. The questions are organized by difficulty — 49 easy, 76 medium, 26 hard — so you can choose the right level for your preparation.
Every question includes a detailed explanation to help you understand the concept, not just memorize answers. Take a timed quiz to simulate exam conditions, or practice at your own pace with no time limit.