Exercise Solutions Available
Step-by-step answers for all textbook questions in this chapter
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Parts of Computer — Exercise Solutions
Complete solutions for Samacheer Kalvi Class 6 Science, Term 2, Chapter 7: Parts of Computer. Solve every question on your own first, then check your answers here.
I. Choose the Correct Answer (Textbook MCQs)
Q1. Which one of the following is an output device?
- (a) Mouse
- (b) Keyboard
- (c) Speaker
- (d) Pendrive
A speaker produces sound — which is processed output from the computer. Mouse and keyboard are input devices; a pendrive is a storage device.
Q2. Name the cable that connects CPU to the Monitor.
- (a) Ethernet
- (b) Power cord
- (c) HDMI
- (d) USB
The power cord supplies electrical power from the mains to the monitor. Note: to transmit video signals from CPU to monitor, VGA or HDMI cables are used — but the textbook answer for "connects CPU to monitor" in this context is Power cord.
Q3. Which one of the following is an input device?
- (a) Speaker
- (b) Keyboard
- (c) Monitor
- (d) Printer
A keyboard is used to type data and send commands into the computer — making it an input device. Speaker, monitor, and printer are all output devices.
Q4. Which one of the following is an example for wireless connections?
- (a) Wi-Fi
- (b) Electric wires
- (c) VGA
- (d) USB
Wi-Fi connects devices to the internet without any physical cable. Electric wires, VGA, and USB are all wired (physical) connections.
Q5. Pen drive is \_\_\_\_\_ device.
- (a) Output
- (b) Input
- (c) Storage
- (d) Connecting cable
A pen drive (USB flash drive) stores data permanently and can be carried from one computer to another. It is neither an input nor an output device — it is a storage device.
II. Match the Following (Textbook)
| Column A | Column B |
|---|---|
| 1. VGA | Connecting cable |
| 2. Bluetooth | Wireless connection |
| 3. Printer | Output device |
| 4. Keyboard | Input device |
| 5. HDMI | Connecting cable |
Explanations:
- VGA (Video Graphics Array) is a cable that connects the monitor to the CPU for video output — hence a connecting cable.
- Bluetooth connects devices like mouse and keyboard without wires — a wireless connection.
- Printer produces hard copies (paper output) from the computer — an output device.
- Keyboard sends typed data into the computer — an input device.
- HDMI (High Definition Multimedia Interface) transmits high-quality audio and video — a connecting cable.
III. Short Answer Questions (Textbook)
Q1. Name the parts of a computer.
A computer has three main parts:
1. Input unit — devices like keyboard, mouse, scanner, barcode reader, web camera, and microphone that send data into the computer for processing 2. Central Processing Unit (CPU) — the "brain" that processes all instructions and data; contains the Memory Unit, Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU), and Control Unit 3. Output unit — devices like monitor, printer, and speaker that display or produce the processed results
Q2. Bring out any two differences between input and output devices.
| S. No. | Input Device | Output Device |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Sends data and commands into the computer for processing | Converts binary signals from the computer into readable/usable form |
| 2 | Examples: Keyboard, Mouse, Scanner, Barcode reader, Web camera, Microphone | Examples: Monitor, Printer, Speaker |
An input device feeds data into the computer; an output device brings processed results out of the computer.
IV. Additional Multiple Choice Questions
Q6. The \_\_\_\_\_ is used to move the pointer on a computer screen.
- (a) Pendrive
- (b) Microphone
- (c) Mouse
- (d) Scanner
A mouse controls the cursor (pointer) on the screen. Moving the mouse on a flat surface moves the pointer correspondingly on the monitor.
Q7. The page on the monitor can be moved up and down using the \_\_\_\_\_.
- (a) Scroll ball
- (b) Left button
- (c) Right button
- (d) Number key
The scroll ball (or scroll wheel) located between the left and right buttons of a mouse is used to scroll pages up and down on the screen.
Q8. Memory can be expanded externally with the help of \_\_\_\_\_.
- (a) Compact Disc
- (b) Mouse
- (c) Keyboard
- (d) Light pen
A Compact Disc (CD) is a storage medium that allows you to store data externally and expand the computer's available memory. Mouse, keyboard, and light pen are input devices — they do not store data.
Q9. Micro computer is also known as \_\_\_\_\_.
- (a) Desktop computer
- (b) Personal computer
- (c) Laptop
- (d) Tablet
Micro computers are small in size and are designed for individual use, so they are also called Personal Computers (PCs). Desktop, laptop, and tablet are types of personal computers.
Q10. To connect the speaker to the computer, \_\_\_\_\_ is used.
- (a) Mic cable
- (b) Audio jack
- (c) Power cord
- (d) Data cable
An audio jack connects the speaker (or headphones) to the computer so that sound output can be heard. Mic cable is for microphone input, power cord is for electricity, and data cable is for mobile/tablet data transfer.
Q11. The data is measured in units which is called as \_\_\_\_\_.
- (a) Bit
- (b) Micron
- (c) Meter
- (d) Millimeter
Computer data is measured in binary digits called bits (0 or 1). 8 bits = 1 byte. Micron, meter, and millimeter are units of physical length, not data.
Q12. Name the volatile memory.
- (a) RAM
- (b) ROM
- (c) PROM
- (d) EPROM
RAM (Random Access Memory) is volatile — it loses all stored data when the computer is switched off. ROM, PROM, and EPROM are non-volatile (they retain data even without power).
V. Fill in the Blanks
1. The data is processed in the CPU. 2. The output unit converts commands received by the computer in the form of binary signals. 3. The computer system which has TFT monitor, emits less heat. 4. Personal computer comes under the micro computer. 5. As the computer is connected with one another, it is also called as system. 6. To connect the Mic to the CPU, mic wire/cord is used.
VI. Very Short Answers
Q1. Give some examples of input devices.
Keyboard, Mouse, Scanner, Barcode Reader, Microphone, Web Camera, and Light Pen are all input devices. They send data and commands into the computer for processing.
Q2. What are the two types of keys in a keyboard?
The two types of keys on a keyboard are:
1. Number keys (0–9) — used to type numerical data 2. Alphabet keys (A–Z) — used to type letters and words
Special keys like Enter, Shift, Ctrl, Alt, and function keys (F1–F12) also exist for specific operations.
Q3. Give the uses of the right and left buttons of a mouse.
- Left button — used for selecting text, clicking on icons, and carrying out actions like opening files and folders
- Right button — used to open a shortcut menu (context menu) with options like copy, paste, rename, and delete
Q4. What are the parts of CPU?
The CPU has three main parts:
1. Memory Unit — stores data and instructions temporarily (RAM) or permanently (ROM) 2. Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU) — performs all arithmetic calculations (addition, subtraction, etc.) and logical comparisons (greater than, less than, equal to) 3. Control Unit — directs and controls the operations of the entire computer system; it fetches, decodes, and executes instructions
Q5. Define: Memory Unit.
The Memory Unit is the part of the CPU that stores all data, instructions, and intermediate results. It holds information temporarily (RAM — volatile) or permanently (ROM — non-volatile) so that the processor can access it quickly during operations.
Q6. Give some examples of output devices.
Monitor, Printer, and Speaker are the main output devices:
- Monitor — displays visual output (text, images, videos)
- Printer — produces hard copies (paper printouts) of documents and images
- Speaker — produces audio output (sounds, music, alerts)
Q7. Name the types of monitors.
There are two types of monitors:
1. CRT (Cathode Ray Tube) monitor — older, bulkier monitors that use electron beams to create images on a phosphor screen; consume more power and emit more heat 2. TFT (Thin Film Transistor) monitor — modern, slim, flat-panel monitors also known as LCD monitors; consume less power, emit less heat, and provide better display quality
Q8. How is a computer classified?
Computers are classified into four types based on size and capacity:
1. Mainframe Computer — large, powerful machines used by big organizations for bulk data processing 2. Mini Computer — medium-sized computers used in medium-scale businesses and laboratories 3. Micro/Personal Computer — small computers designed for individual use (desktops, laptops, tablets) 4. Super Computer — the fastest and most powerful computers used for complex scientific calculations like weather forecasting and space research
Q9. What are the types of Personal Computer?
Personal computers come in three types:
1. Desktop — a stationary computer with separate CPU, monitor, keyboard, and mouse; typically used in offices and homes 2. Laptop — a portable computer with all components integrated into a single foldable unit; runs on rechargeable battery 3. Tablet — a compact, touch-screen portable computer; smaller and lighter than a laptop, ideal for reading and browsing
Q10. What is the use of Ethernet?
Ethernet cable helps establish internet connectivity. It connects the computer to a local network or a router, allowing wired internet access and data sharing between connected devices.
Q11. Give two examples of wireless connections.
1. Wi-Fi — provides internet connectivity without physical cables; connects devices to a wireless router 2. Bluetooth — connects nearby devices (like mouse, keyboard, headphones) to the computer without wires; also enables data sharing between devices
Q12. What is the use of Bluetooth?
Bluetooth is used to connect devices like mouse and keyboard to the computer without wires. It also enables sharing of data (files, photos, music) with nearby devices over short distances, typically within 10 metres.
Q13. What is the use of Wi-Fi?
Wi-Fi provides internet connectivity without any connecting cables. Data from anywhere can be accessed and shared using Wi-Fi. It allows multiple devices to connect to the internet through a wireless router within a certain range.
VII. Short Answer Questions
Q1. Distinguish between input and output devices with examples.
| Feature | Input Device | Output Device |
|---|---|---|
| Function | Sends data and commands into the computer | Converts processed binary signals into readable form |
| Direction | User → Computer | Computer → User |
| Examples | Keyboard, Mouse, Scanner, Microphone, Web camera | Monitor, Printer, Speaker |
| Purpose | Feeds information for processing | Presents processed results to the user |
Q2. Describe the parts of a CPU with their functions.
The CPU (Central Processing Unit) is the brain of the computer. It has three parts:
1. Memory Unit — Stores all data and instructions. It has two types:
2. Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU) — Performs all arithmetic operations (addition, subtraction, multiplication, division) and logical comparisons (greater than, less than, equal to) 3. Control Unit — Manages and directs all operations of the computer. It fetches instructions from memory, decodes them, and sends signals to other components to execute them
- RAM (Random Access Memory) — volatile memory; data is lost when power is switched off
- ROM (Read Only Memory) — non-volatile memory; data is retained even without power
Q3. Compare CRT and TFT monitors.
| Feature | CRT Monitor | TFT Monitor |
|---|---|---|
| Full form | Cathode Ray Tube | Thin Film Transistor |
| Size | Bulky, occupies more space | Slim, compact, occupies less space |
| Power consumption | Higher | Lower |
| Heat emission | More | Less |
| Display quality | Good | Better |
| Weight | Heavy | Light |
| Cost | Less expensive | More expensive |
VIII. Detailed / Long Answer Questions
Q1. What are the types of connecting cables? Describe each one.
Connecting cables physically link different parts of the computer or connect the computer to external devices:
| Cable | Purpose |
|---|---|
| VGA cable | Connects the monitor to the CPU for video display output |
| HDMI cable | Transmits high-quality audio and video signals; connects monitor, projector, or TV to the computer |
| USB cable | Connects devices like printer, pendrive, scanner, mouse, keyboard, web camera, and mobile phones to the computer |
| Data cable | Transmits data; connects tablets and mobile phones to the CPU for file transfer |
| Power cord | Supplies electrical power from the mains to the computer or monitor |
| Mic cable | Connects the microphone to the CPU for voice input |
| Audio jack | Connects the speaker or headphones to the computer for sound output |
| Ethernet cable | Establishes wired internet connectivity by connecting the computer to a router or network |
In addition to these wired connections, wireless connections like Wi-Fi and Bluetooth allow devices to communicate without physical cables.
Q2. Explain the classification of computers with examples.
Computers are classified into four categories based on their size, speed, storage capacity, and purpose:
1. Mainframe Computer
- Large and powerful computers
- Used by big organizations like banks, airlines, and government departments
- Can handle hundreds of users simultaneously
- Example: IBM mainframes used in banking systems
2. Mini Computer
- Medium-sized computers, smaller than mainframes
- Used in medium-scale businesses, laboratories, and colleges
- Can handle fewer users than a mainframe
- Example: Computers used in research labs
3. Micro/Personal Computer
- Small, affordable computers designed for individual use
- Also known as PC (Personal Computer)
- Three types: Desktop, Laptop, and Tablet
- Example: The computer you use at home or school
4. Super Computer
- The fastest, most powerful, and most expensive computers
- Used for complex scientific calculations — weather forecasting, space research, nuclear simulations
- Example: PARAM (India), Cray (USA)
Q3. Draw and describe the block diagram of a computer.
A computer works in three stages: Input → Processing → Output
- Input Unit: Receives data from the user through input devices (keyboard, mouse, scanner) and sends it to the CPU
- CPU: Processes the data using its three components — Memory Unit (stores data), ALU (performs calculations), Control Unit (coordinates operations)
- Output Unit: Converts the processed binary signals into human-readable form and displays results through output devices (monitor, printer, speaker)
Common Mistakes
1. Calling a pen drive an input or output device — A pen drive is a storage device, not input or output. It stores data for later retrieval; it does not feed data directly for processing (input) nor display results (output).
2. Confusing VGA/HDMI with the power cord — VGA and HDMI transmit video signals between CPU and monitor. The power cord supplies electrical power. They serve completely different purposes.
3. Saying "ROM is volatile" — ROM (Read Only Memory) is non-volatile — it retains data even when the computer is switched off. Only RAM is volatile (data lost on power-off).
4. Treating monitor and printer as input devices — Both are output devices. A monitor displays visual output; a printer produces hard-copy output. They do not send data into the computer.
5. Confusing Bluetooth and Wi-Fi — Bluetooth connects nearby devices (within ~10 m) for file sharing and peripheral connections. Wi-Fi provides internet access over a wider range (typically 30–100 m). Bluetooth is device-to-device; Wi-Fi is device-to-network.
6. Saying "CPU is the same as the computer" — The CPU is only one part of the computer — the processing unit. A complete computer system includes the input unit, CPU, output unit, and storage devices.
7. Listing scanner as only an output device — While some textbooks include scanner under output devices, a scanner primarily functions as an input device (it scans documents and sends the image data into the computer). However, some multi-function devices combine scanning (input) and printing (output).
Exam Checklist
- [ ] Name the three main parts of a computer (Input unit, CPU, Output unit)
- [ ] List examples of input devices (keyboard, mouse, scanner, microphone, web camera, barcode reader, light pen)
- [ ] List examples of output devices (monitor, printer, speaker)
- [ ] Explain the three parts of CPU (Memory Unit, ALU, Control Unit)
- [ ] Distinguish between RAM (volatile) and ROM (non-volatile)
- [ ] Compare CRT and TFT monitors
- [ ] Classify computers into four types (Mainframe, Mini, Micro/Personal, Super)
- [ ] Name three types of personal computers (Desktop, Laptop, Tablet)
- [ ] List and describe connecting cables (VGA, HDMI, USB, Data cable, Power cord, Mic cable, Audio jack, Ethernet)
- [ ] Explain wireless connections (Wi-Fi and Bluetooth) with their uses
- [ ] Distinguish between input and output devices with examples
- [ ] Identify pen drive as a storage device (not input/output)
- [ ] Know the difference between volatile and non-volatile memory
