1. What is the defining technology of first-generation computers?
A. Transistors
B. Nanotechnology
C. Artificial intelligence
D. Vacuum tubes Correct
Explanation
First-generation computers, developed from the 1940s to the early 1950s, utilized vacuum tubes for circuitry and magnetic drums for memory. These tubes were large, generated a significant amount of heat, and were prone to frequent failure. Transistors define the second generation, nanotechnology is associated with much more modern advancements, and artificial intelligence is a key technology of the fifth generation.
2. What is the time period during which microprocessors were the defining technology of computing?
A. 1965–1971
B. 1946–1959
C. 1971–present Correct
D. 1959–1965
Explanation
The microprocessor, which put an entire CPU on a single chip, was introduced in 1971 with the Intel 4004. This innovation defines the fourth generation of computers, which extends to the present day. The period 1946-1959 is for first-gen vacuum tubes, 1959-1965 is for second-gen transistors, and 1965-1971 is for third-gen integrated circuits.
3. Which computing generation has artificial intelligence as a defining technology?
A. First
B. Fifth Correct
C. Second
D. Third
Explanation
The fifth generation of computing, beginning in the 1980s and continuing to the present, is characterized by the use of artificial intelligence (AI), parallel processing, and very large-scale integration (VLSI). The first generation used vacuum tubes, the second used transistors, and the third used integrated circuits.
4. Which component of the data-information-knowledge-wisdom (DIKW) pyramid includes raw facts?
A. Information
B. Data Correct
C. Knowledge
D. Wisdom
Explanation
The DIKW hierarchy describes the transformation of data into value. Data represents raw, unorganized facts and figures that need to be processed. Information is data that has been processed and given context. Knowledge is the application of information, and wisdom is the insightful use of knowledge.
5. Which component of the data-information-knowledge-wisdom (DIKW) pyramid is associated with the key term content?
A. Knowledge
B. Data
C. Wisdom
D. Information Correct
Explanation
In the DIKW model, 'Information' is data that has been processed, organized, or structured to convey meaning, relevance, and purpose. It provides answers to 'who', 'what', 'where', and 'when' questions, giving content to the raw data. Data is the raw content, knowledge is the understanding of patterns, and wisdom is the judicious application of that knowledge.