1. Which technology is characteristic of second-generation computing?
A. Microprocessors
B. Transistors Correct
C. Nanotechnology
D. Artificial intelligence
Explanation
Second-generation computers (late 1950s to mid-1960s) used transistors as the primary electronic component, replacing the vacuum tubes of the first generation. Transistors were smaller, faster, more reliable, and generated less heat.
2. Which generation of computing is associated with Integrated circuits?
A. Second
B. Third Correct
C. Fourth
D. Fifth
Explanation
Third-generation computers (mid-1960s to mid-1970s) were characterized by the use of integrated circuits (ICs), which packed hundreds of transistors onto a single silicon chip. This led to further reductions in size, cost, and power consumption, and increased reliability and speed.
3. What is the generation of computing known for the introduction of electronic components that could maintain exactly two states?
A. First Correct
B. Second
C. Third
D. Fourth
Explanation
First-generation computers (1940s-1950s) used vacuum tubes, which are electronic components that can be in one of two states: on or off. This binary (two-state) operation is the foundation of digital computing.
4. Which generation of computing is known for the use of operating systems to allow for shared memory and resources?
A. Second
B. Third Correct
C. Fourth
D. Fifth
Explanation
Third-generation computing saw the development of operating systems that allowed for time-sharing, virtual memory, and multiprogramming. This enabled multiple users and applications to share a computer's memory and processing resources more efficiently.
5. What is the generation of computing known for natural language processing and machine learning capabilities?
A. Second
B. Third
C. Fourth
D. Fifth Correct
Explanation
Fifth-generation computing (present and future) is associated with artificial intelligence, including natural language processing, machine learning, and parallel processing. The goal is to create computers that can reason and solve problems in human-like ways.