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3.3.5 Explore - Computer Memory (Exploration)

This document is an educational activity focused on computer memory, specifically RAM and its workings, as well as the history of computers. It includes questions about RAM, memory cells, and significant advancements in computing technology. Additionally, it addresses the practical considerations for determining the appropriate amount of RAM for different computer uses.

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0% found this document useful (0 votes)

32 views7 pages

3.3.5 Explore - Computer Memory (Exploration)

Uploaded by

rithvik.rao.8

We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.

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Download as DOCX, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd

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3.3.

5 Explore: Computer Memory Exploration

Physics Honors Sem 2 Name:
Date:

In this activity, you will apply what you have learned in the
lesson. Answer the questions below. Submit this to your teacher
when you are done.

1. Use this article to answer questions about how the memory of a

computer works. (11 points)

How RAM Works

a. What does RAM stand for? What does SAM stand for? Which type of
memory is better, and why? (4 points)
Ram stands for Random Access memory and SAM stands for serial
access memory. Ram is the better choice due to the speed at which it
executes processes with its ability to access any part of memory quickly
makes it ideal for running multiple applications and handling complex
tasks that require non-sequential data access. Sam is only good for
specific applications that use sequential data and isn’t as versatile as
Ram.
b. Which two devices are paired to create a memory cell? What
term is used to describe this common form of computer memory? (2
points)

A transistor and a capacitor are paired to create a memory cell. The

term DRAM (dynamic random-access memory) is used to describe this
form of memory. This form of memory is described as dynamic
because the capacitor needs to be periodically refreshed to maintain
the data it holds.

c. Read the fourth paragraph. In your own words, describe how a

capacitor works to store zeros and ones in a memory cell. (2 points)

Let’s say the capacitor is the battery in a phone and it can either be
full charge or zero charge. The problem with the battery is that the
battery in a phone will lose charge and, in a few hours, it will go to
zero. To circumvent this a CPU controller, which is a charger in this
case, needs to keep charging it before it hits zero. It basically reads the
memory and charges it back if it’s under a certain threshold.
d. How does a memory controller help keep the ones stored in
memory when the “leaky bucket” capacitor keeps emptying? (3
points) The memory

Reading the Data: The memory controller periodically checks the charge
level of each capacitor to determine whether it's storing a "1" (charged)
or a "0" (discharged). Refreshing the Capacitors: If a capacitor is holding a
"1," the memory controller recharges it before the charge leaks away,
ensuring that the "1" remains stored. Automatic Refreshing: This refresh
operation happens automatically thousands of times per second,
continuously keeping the capacitors charged and the data intact, despite
the natural discharge of the capacitors.

The History of Computers in a Nutshell

2. Use this article to answer questions about the history of
computers. (9 points)

a. What was the Colossus, and what was its purpose? (2 points)
The colossus was a huge computer which was built during WW2. It was
used to decrypt German codes during the war.

b. What was the significance of transistors in the development of

computers? (3 points)

They helped reduce the size of computers by replacing the vacuum

tubes with smaller it also led to the development of computer
peripherals
c. What was one of the most important advancements in computing
technology during the 1960s, and why? (4 points)

One of the most important advancements in computing technology

during the 1960s was the development of the Integrated Circuit.
This technology revolutionized computing by significantly reducing
the size and cost of computers while increasing their power and
efficiency. Integrated circuits combined multiple transistors on a
single chip which paved the way for the miniaturization of
electronics and the creation of more powerful computers leading to
widespread use in various industries.
3. Use this article to answer questions to determine the amount of
RAM you may need for your computer. (5 points)

Laptop PC RAM Size and Performance Explained

a. When it comes to memory, why is it important to have enough

storage space on a hard drive when using many RAM intensive
programs? (2 points)

b. Based on the RAM usage chart, which type of software (not

including Windows 10) often uses the most memory? (1 point)
c. Would a computer with 32 gigabytes of RAM be needed for
someone who only browses the internet and checks emails? Explain
your answer. (2 points)

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