A Level Computer Science OCR Practice Exam

Which of the following statements about cache memory is correct?

1. It is located only in external storage

2. It has slower access times than RAM

3. It is a part of the main store used between the CPU and RAM

4. It only stores data temporarily

The correct answer is: It is a part of the main store used between the CPU and RAM

The statement about cache memory being a part of the main store used between the CPU and RAM is accurate. Cache memory is a small-sized type of volatile computer memory that provides high-speed data access to the processor and stores frequently used computer programs, applications, and data. It acts as a buffer between the CPU and the main memory (RAM), allowing the CPU to access data more quickly than it could from RAM alone. Cache memory is designed to speed up the processing and increase the overall performance of the computer by reducing the time it takes to access data that the CPU needs to execute instructions. Therefore, placing cache memory strategically close to the CPU enhances its efficiency. Other statements either misrepresent cache memory's role or its attributes, as cache is neither located in external storage nor does it have slower access times compared to RAM. Additionally, while it does temporarily store data, its purpose extends beyond just temporary storage, as it specifically retains data that is frequently accessed to optimize processing speed.