20 Computer Parts Quiz Questions and Answers

Question 1: What is the primary function of a CPU in a computer?
A) To store data permanently
B) To process instructions and perform calculations
C) To provide power to the system
D) To display graphics on the screen

Answer: B) To process instructions and perform calculations
Explanation: The CPU, or Central Processing Unit, acts as the brain of the computer, executing instructions from programs and performing arithmetic, logical, control, and input/output operations.

Question 2: Which component is responsible for temporarily storing data that the CPU needs to access quickly?
A) Hard Disk Drive (HDD)
B) Random Access Memory (RAM)
C) Solid State Drive (SSD)
D) Graphics Processing Unit (GPU)

Answer: B) Random Access Memory (RAM)
Explanation: RAM provides fast, temporary storage for data and instructions that the CPU is currently using, allowing for quick read and write access during operation.

Question 3: What is the main role of the motherboard in a computer system?
A) To cool the CPU
B) To connect and allow communication between various hardware components
C) To store the operating system
D) To process video signals

Answer: B) To connect and allow communication between various hardware components
Explanation: The motherboard is the main circuit board that houses the CPU, RAM, and other components, providing the pathways for data transfer between them.

Question 4: Which computer part is specifically designed to handle rendering images, videos, and 3D graphics?
A) CPU
B) GPU
C) RAM
D) Power Supply Unit (PSU)

Answer: B) GPU
Explanation: The GPU, or Graphics Processing Unit, is specialized for parallel processing tasks related to graphics, making it essential for gaming, video editing, and visual computations.

Question 5: What type of storage device uses spinning disks to read and write data?
A) Solid State Drive (SSD)
B) USB Flash Drive
C) Hard Disk Drive (HDD)
D) Optical Drive

Answer: C) Hard Disk Drive (HDD)
Explanation: HDDs use rotating magnetic disks to store and retrieve data, offering larger storage capacities at a lower cost compared to some other options, though they are slower.

Question 6: Which component converts AC power from the wall outlet to DC power for the computer’s internal components?
A) CPU
B) Motherboard
C) Power Supply Unit (PSU)
D) Battery

Answer: C) Power Supply Unit (PSU)
Explanation: The PSU regulates and distributes the appropriate voltage and current to various parts of the computer, ensuring safe and stable operation.

Question 7: What is the purpose of a heat sink in a computer?
A) To increase processing speed
B) To absorb and dissipate heat from components like the CPU
C) To store additional data
D) To connect peripherals

Answer: B) To absorb and dissipate heat from components like the CPU
Explanation: A heat sink is a passive cooling device that draws heat away from hot components and releases it into the air, preventing overheating and potential damage.

Question 8: Which part of the computer holds the BIOS or UEFI firmware?
A) RAM
B) Hard Drive
C) Motherboard
D) GPU

Answer: C) Motherboard
Explanation: The motherboard contains the firmware chip for BIOS or UEFI, which initializes hardware components and loads the operating system during boot-up.

Question 9: What does RAM stand for, and what is its key characteristic?
A) Random Access Memory; it is non-volatile
B) Read-Only Memory; it is volatile
C) Random Access Memory; it is volatile
D) Read-Only Memory; it is non-volatile

Answer: C) Random Access Memory; it is volatile
Explanation: RAM stands for Random Access Memory and is volatile, meaning it loses its data when power is turned off, but it allows for fast data access.

Question 10: Which expansion slot is commonly used for adding graphics cards?
A) PCIe
B) SATA
C) USB
D) RAM Slot

Answer: A) PCIe
Explanation: PCIe (Peripheral Component Interconnect Express) slots are high-speed interfaces used for components like graphics cards to enhance performance through faster data transfer.

Question 11: What is the main advantage of an SSD over an HDD?
A) Lower cost per gigabyte
B) Faster read and write speeds
C) Larger storage capacity
D) Better cooling efficiency

Answer: B) Faster read and write speeds
Explanation: SSDs use flash memory, which has no moving parts, resulting in quicker access times and boot speeds compared to the mechanical HDDs.

Question 12: Which component is used to connect external devices like keyboards and mice?
A) GPU
B) Ports (e.g., USB ports)
C) CPU
D) Hard Drive

Answer: B) Ports (e.g., USB ports)
Explanation: Ports such as USB allow for the connection of peripherals, enabling data transfer and communication between the computer and external devices.

Question 13: What is the primary function of a computer’s case or chassis?
A) To process data
B) To house and protect internal components
C) To store software
D) To display output

Answer: B) To house and protect internal components
Explanation: The case encloses the motherboard, drives, and other parts, providing physical protection, airflow for cooling, and mounting points.

Question 14: Which type of memory is used to store permanent data that does not change, like the boot loader?
A) RAM
B) Cache Memory
C) ROM
D) Virtual Memory

Answer: C) ROM
Explanation: ROM (Read-Only Memory) contains pre-written data that remains even when the computer is off, such as firmware instructions for startup.

Question 15: What role does a fan play in a computer system?
A) To process audio signals
B) To cool components by circulating air
C) To store files
D) To connect to the internet

Answer: B) To cool components by circulating air
Explanation: Fans help maintain optimal temperatures by expelling hot air and drawing in cool air, preventing thermal throttling and hardware failure.

Question 16: Which computer part is essential for network connectivity, such as connecting to the internet via Ethernet?
A) Sound Card
B) Network Interface Card (NIC)
C) Optical Drive
D) Power Supply

Answer: B) Network Interface Card (NIC)
Explanation: The NIC enables wired or wireless communication over a network, allowing data transfer between the computer and other devices on a network.

Question 17: What is the function of an optical drive in a computer?
A) To process graphics
B) To read and write data on CDs, DVDs, or Blu-ray discs
C) To provide power
D) To cool the system

Answer: B) To read and write data on CDs, DVDs, or Blu-ray discs
Explanation: An optical drive uses a laser to access data on optical media, commonly used for installing software, backing up data, or playing media.

Question 18: Which component temporarily stores frequently accessed data to speed up CPU operations?
A) Hard Drive
B) Cache Memory
C) RAM
D) ROM

Answer: B) Cache Memory
Explanation: Cache memory is a small, fast type of RAM located on the CPU or nearby, storing data that is likely to be needed next to reduce access times.

Question 19: What is the purpose of a sound card in a computer?
A) To handle video output
B) To process and output audio signals
C) To manage storage
D) To connect to networks

Answer: B) To process and output audio signals
Explanation: The sound card converts digital audio data into analog signals for speakers or headphones, and vice versa for microphones, enabling sound functionality.

Question 20: Which motherboard form factor is commonly used in desktop computers for its balance of size and expandability?
A) ATX
B) Micro-ATX
C) Mini-ITX
D) EATX

Answer: A) ATX
Explanation: ATX is a standard form factor that offers more expansion slots and ports compared to smaller options, making it ideal for standard desktop builds.