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Learn: Virtual Memory - Why It’s Needed
OCR GCSE J277 Computer Science specification
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Welcome!Building on what you've already learned about RAM, ROM, and cache, today we’ll explore virtual memory. This is an essential concept for understanding how computers manage memory when RAM is full.
What is Virtual Memory?Virtual memory is a section of secondary storage (like a hard drive or SSD) used as temporary RAM when the actual RAM is full. It allows the computer to continue running programs even when there isn’t enough physical RAM available. However, it is slower than regular RAM because it relies on storage devices.
Why is virtual memory needed in a computer?
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How Does Virtual Memory Work?When RAM runs out of space, the operating system moves data that isn’t actively being used into virtual memory, freeing up RAM for more immediate tasks. When the data is needed again, it is swapped back into RAM. This swapping process is known as paging.
Virtual memory is stored on the {{blank0}} and used when {{blank1}} is full.
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Advantages of Virtual MemoryVirtual memory allows computers to run more programs than the physical RAM can support. It prevents crashes when RAM is overloaded. However, it is slower than RAM because storage devices are less efficient.
Which of the following are true about virtual memory? (Select all that apply)
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Disadvantages of Virtual MemoryWhile virtual memory is useful, it has drawbacks. Swapping data between RAM and secondary storage can slow down the computer, especially if the storage device is slow. This is called disk thrashing.
What is a disadvantage of virtual memory?
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Review Time!Great work! You've learned about virtual memory, how it works, and its advantages and disadvantages. Now let’s test your understanding of all these key points.
Match the items on the left with their correct pairs on the right
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Virtual memory is slower than RAM because it uses {{blank0}} devices to store data temporarily.
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Final Question!Let’s see how well you can apply your knowledge.
What happens when RAM is full and virtual memory is used?
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