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Learn: Primary vs. Secondary Storage
OCR H446 Computer Science Specification
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Welcome!Welcome back! You've already explored topics such as the Fetch-Decode-Execute Cycle and Input, Output, and Storage Devices. Today, we'll dive into Primary vs. Secondary Storage and compare their roles in computer systems.
What is Primary Storage?Primary storage refers to the memory directly accessed by the CPU, such as RAM (Random Access Memory) and ROM (Read-Only Memory). It is fast, volatile, and used to store data and instructions temporarily while the computer is running.
Which of the following is an example of primary storage?
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What is Secondary Storage?Secondary storage refers to non-volatile storage used for long-term data retention, such as hard drives, SSD (Solid-State Drives), and optical disks like DVDs. It is slower than primary storage but holds data permanently, even when the computer is turned off.
Which of the following are examples of secondary storage? (Select all that apply)
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Key Differences between Primary and Secondary StoragePrimary storage is faster and directly accessed by the CPU, but it is volatile and temporary. Secondary storage is slower, non-volatile, and used for long-term data storage.
Match the items on the left with their correct pairs on the right
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Why Do Computers Need Both?Computers use primary storage for fast access to data while processing tasks and secondary storage for long-term storage of files and programs. Together, they ensure efficiency and data permanence.
Primary storage, such as {{blank0}}, is {{blank1}} and temporary. Secondary storage, like {{blank2}}, is {{blank3}} and permanent.
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Review Time!Great work! You've learned about the differences between primary and secondary storage, their examples, and why both are essential in computer systems. Let's test your understanding with a few final questions.
Which type of storage is directly accessed by the CPU?
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Select all characteristics of secondary storage.
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Match the items on the left with their correct pairs on the right
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{{blank0}} storage is faster but temporary, while {{blank1}} storage is slower but permanent.
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