NAME: ONWUEGBUCHA ELIZABETH CHIBUGO

DEPARTMENT: BIOCHEMISTRY
LEVEL: 100L
COURSE CODE: COS 101
Tutorial question for csc 101
Question 1
a.Exhaustively, define what you understand by the term Computer system
A computer system is a complex network of interconnected devices that work together to
process information.e.g hardware, software, data
b. Discuss the following major hardware components of a computer system. Support your
discussion with relevant diagram a) processor: The processor, often referred to as the CPU
(Central Processing Unit), is essentially the brain of the computer. It's responsible for executing
instructions from programs and managing the operations of other hardware components.
b) main memory: Main memory, also known as primary memory or RAM, is the computer's
temporary workspace. It stores data and instructions that are currently being used by the
computer.
c) secondary memory: Secondary memory is a type of computer storage that is used to store
data
and programs for long-term use.
d) Input device: Input devices are the hardware components that allow you to interact with and
control your computer. They are used to enter data and commands into the computer.
e) output device: Output devices are hardware components that allow a computer to display or
present information to a user.e.g monitor, printer, speaker.
C.What are the characteristics of secondary storage media?
1. Durability: Most secondary storage media are quite durable and can withstand daily wear and
tear. However, they can be susceptible to physical damage if not handled properly.
2. Portability:Many secondary storage devices, like USB flash drives and external hard drives, are
portable and can be easily transported.
3. Cost: Generally, secondary storage is more cost-effective than primary storage when it comes
to storing large amounts of data.
4. Access Time: While slower than primary storage (RAM), secondary storage devices have
varying access times. SSDs, for instance, have faster access times compared to traditional
HDDs.
Question 2
a.what are the differences between primary and secondary storage.
1) Primary storage is quick to access data while secondary storage is slow to access data.
2) Primary storage has a small capacity and is not meant for storing a lot of data.
b. Distinguish between the following :
(i) Desktop publishing packages and multimedia packages.
Desktop publishing packages: Desktop publishing packages are software programs that allow
users to create documents with complex layouts, such as magazines, newspapers, and
brochures.
Multimedia packages: Multimedia packages are software programs that allow users to create
interactive content that combines text, images, audio, and video.
(ii) Input and output
Input: Input devices are hardware components that allow users to enter data or instructions into
a
computer. Examples of input devices include keyboards, mice, scanners, and microphones.
Output: output is the data or information that is produced by a computer system.
(iii) Utility Software and Device Driver
Utility software:Utility software is like a set of tools that helps you maintain and optimize your
computer. It can do things e.g Back up your files, clean up your hard drive.
Device Driver: Device drivers are specific programs that allow your computer to communicate
with a particular hardware device, such as a printer, scanner, or webcam.
(iv) computer hardware and Peripheral.
Computer hardware: Computer hardware is the physical parts of a computer that you can touch.
This includes things like the motherboard, CPU, RAM, and storage drives.
Peripheral: Peripherals are devices that are connected to a computer to add functionality. This
includes things like keyboards, mice, monitors, printers, and scanners.
C. Is a Graph Plotter an Input device or an output device Describe how they work?
A graph plotter is an output device that creates physical copies of graphs and other visual data.
It works by using pens or other drawing instruments to draw lines and shapes on paper or other
materials.
Question 3
a. Computer are classified according to:
a) Sizes
b) Types
c) Purpose, Discuss
Re-enforce your answers with appropriate illustrations.
Size:
Supercomputer: These are the largest and most powerful computers, capable of performing
complex calculations at incredible speeds.
Mainframe computers: These are large computers that can support many users simultaneously.
Minicomputer: These are smaller than mainframe computers but still quite powerful.
Microcomputers: These are the most common type of computer, and they come in a variety of
sizes and shapes.
Type:
Personal computers (PCs): These are computers that are designed for use by a single person.
Servers: These are computers that are designed to store and share data with other computers on
a network.
Embedded computers: These are computers that are built into other devices, such as cars,
appliances, and medical equipment.
Purpose:
General-purpose computers: These are computers that can be used for a variety of tasks.
Special-purpose computers: These are computers that are designed for a specific
B. Differentiate between the following terms.
(a) Data and Information.
Data: It's the basic facts and figures that haven't been processed or organized yet.
Information: It's data that has been processed, organized, and interpreted to make it meaningful
and useful.
(b) system software and application software.
System software: It manages the hardware and software resources of your computer, and
provides a platform for other software to run on.
Application software: Application software is designed to help you perform specific tasks.
Examples of application software include word processors, web browsers, and games.
(c ) RAM and ROM
ROM: ROM stands for Read Only Memory. It is used to store data that the computer needs to
start
up. RAM:
RAM stands for Random Access Memory. It is used to store data that the computer is currently
using. (d)
Hardware and software Hardware:
Hardware is the physical stuff you can touch and see in a computer or electronic device.
Software: Software is the set of instructions that tells the hardware what to do.
(e) Generic software and Custom software.
Generic software: Generic software is designed to meet the needs of a wide range of users.
Custom software: custom software is designed to meet the specific needs of a particular
organization or individual.
Question 4
a. Write a short note on each of the following application software.
(i) word processor: This software enables users to create, edit, format, and print textual
documents. Examples include Microsoft Word, Google Docs, and Apple Pages. They offer
features like spell check, grammar check, and various formatting options to enhance the
document's appearance.
(ii) spreadsheet: Spreadsheets are used for organizing, analyzing, and storing data in tabular
form. They can perform mathematical calculations, create charts, and generate reports. Popular
spreadsheet applications include Microsoft Excel, Google Sheets, and Apple Numbers.
(iii) Graphic packages: Graphics packages are software programs that allow you to create and
edit images. They are used for a variety of tasks, such as designing logos, creating illustrations,
and editing photos. Some popular graphics packages include Adobe Photoshop, GIMP, and
Inkscape.
(iv) Database: Databases are software programs that allow you to store and organize large
amounts of data. They are used by businesses and organizations to keep track of information
such as customer records, inventory, and financial data.
(V) packages: This software is used to create slideshows and presentations that can be
displayed
on a screen or projector. They provide tools for adding text, images, animations, and multimedia
elements.
b. Itemize 2 components of a central processing unit and describe each of them in detail.
Control Units: The control unit is responsible for fetching instructions from memory, decoding
them, and then executing them. It does this by sending signals to the other components of the
computer.
Arithmetic logic Unit: The ALU is the part of the CPU responsible for performing all arithmetic
and logical operations. This includes basic calculations such as addition, subtraction,
multiplication, and division, as well as logic operations like AND, OR, NOT, and XOR.
Question 5
a. Write a short note on the following;
i) First Generation of Computer (1940s - 1950s).
- These computers used vacuum tubes for
circuitry and magnetic drums for memory. They were large, expensive, and generated a lot of
heat.
- Programming was done in machine language, which is the lowest-level programming
language.
ii) Second Generation of Computers (1950s - 1960s).
- These computers used transistors instead of vacuum tubes, which made them smaller, more
reliable, and more energy-efficient.
- They used magnetic core memory and introduced assembly language and high-level
programming languages like COBOL and FORTRAN.
iii) Third Generation of Computers (1960s - 1970s).
- Integrated Circuits (ICs) replaced transistors, leading to even smaller and more powerful
computers.
- These computers used semiconductor memory and introduced operating systems, which
allowed multiple programs to run simultaneously.
iv) Modern Computers (1980s - Present).
- Modern computers use microprocessors, which integrate millions of transistors on a single
silicon chip.
- They feature high-speed processing, large storage capacities, and advanced interfaces such
as graphical user interfaces (GUIs).
- Examples include personal computers, laptops, tablets, and smartphones.
- Modern computers support complex software applications, advanced multimedia capabilities,
and seamless connectivity through the internet.
Question 6
a. Discuss the application of Computer Systems in any 3 areas of your choice.
Communication: Computers allow us to communicate with people all over the world instantly.
Education: Computers are essential tools for learning. They can be used to access educational
resources, such as online courses, textbooks, and reference materials.
Entertainment: Computers provide us with a wide range of entertainment options. We can use
them to play games, listen to music, watch movies, and browse the internet.
B. With the aid of specific examples, discuss the role of computer to the modern day era,
Computers play a huge role in our modern world. They help us communicate with each other,
learn new things, and do our jobs. For example, we can use computers to send emails, video chat
with friends and family, and take online courses.
c. Distinguish between (1) RAM and ROM (2) input and output unit (3) primary and auxiliary
memory. (1) RAM and ROM
RAM (Random Access Memory): Think of RAM as your computer's short-term memory. It stores
the data you're currently working on, like the documents you're editing or the games you're
playing.
ROM (Read-Only Memory): ROM is like your computer's long-term memory. It stores essential
instructions that your computer needs to start up and function properly.
(2) input and output units
Input units: Input units are devices that allow you to enter data into your computer. Some
common input units include keyboards, mice, scanners, and microphones.
Output units: Output units are devices that allow your computer to display or send data to you.
Some common output units include monitors, printers, and speakers.
(3) primary and auxiliary memory
Primary memory: Primary memory is the memory that your computer uses to store data while it's
running.
Auxiliary memory: Auxiliary memory is the memory that your computer uses to store data when
it's not in use. It's much slower than primary memory, but it's also much cheaper. Auxiliary
memory
is made up of devices like hard drives, solid-state drives, and optical drives.
Question 7
a. There are several ways that signed numbers can be represented in binary, but the most
common representation used today is called two’s Compliment. (i) Briefly explain two different
ways in which it can be used, and (ii) why it is used.
(i) briefly explain two different ways in which it can be used.
-Representing Signed Integers.
Two’s complement is commonly used to represent signed integers in binary. A positive number
remains the same in its binary form, while a negative number is represented by inverting all the
bits of its absolute value (1’s complement) and adding 1. For example, in an 8-bit system:
+5: 00000101.
-5: 11111011
-Performing Arithmetic Operations.
Two’s complement simplifies arithmetic operations like addition and subtraction. For example,
subtracting B from A can be done by adding A to the two’s complement of B. This eliminates the
need for separate subtraction logic in hardware, as the same circuitry can be used for addition
and subtraction.
(ii) Why Two’s Complement Is Used.
1.Simplifies Arithmetic Operations:Two’s complement eliminates the need for special rules to
handle negative numbers during arithmetic. Addition and subtraction use the same hardware,
reducing complexity.
2.Unique Representation for Zero: Unlike other systems (e.g., sign-magnitude or 1’s
complement),
two’s complement has only one representation for zero, avoiding ambiguity.
3.Efficient Hardware Implementation:Since two’s complement allows seamless addition and
subtraction, it simplifies processor design. This efficiency is especially important for modern
computers that require fast and reliable arithmetic operations.
4. Supports Overflow Detection: Overflow conditions in two’s complement arithmetic are easy to
detect using carry and sign bits, making it practical for computer systems.
b. Highlight 3 reasons why hexadecimal numbers are used.
*Compactness: Hexadecimal numbers can represent a larger range of values than binary
numbers using fewer digits. This makes them more efficient for storing and transmitting data.
*Readability: Hexadecimal numbers are easier for humans to read and understand than binary
numbers. This is because they use a smaller set of symbols and because the symbols are more
familiar to us.
* Ease of conversion: Hexadecimal numbers can be easily converted to and from binary
numbers. This makes them useful for working with computer hardware and software.
c. Obtain the 1’s and 2’s complement of the following 8-bit numbers: i) 10101110 ii) 10000000 iii)
10000001
i) 10101110
1.1’sComplement: Flip all bits: 10101110 \rightarrow 01010001
2. 2’s Complement:Add 1 : 01010001 + 1 = 01010010 ii) 10000000.
1) 1’s Complement:Flip all bits: 10000000 \rightarrow 01111111
2. 2’s Complement:Add 1 : 01111111 + 1 = 10000000 iii) 10000001.
1. 1’s Complement:Flip all bits: 10000001 \rightarrow 01111110
2. 2’s Complement:Add 1 : 01111110 + 1 = 01111111
Question 8
a. Perform the arithmetic operations (+42) + (-13) and 12810 – 6410 in binary using 2’s
complement
representation for negative numbers.
*Convert the decimal numbers to binary.
* Convert the negative binary number to 2's complement.
* Add the binary numbers.
* Convert the binary result back to decimal.
Here are the steps for the first operation, (+42) + (-13):
* Convert the decimal numbers to binary:
* 42 = 00101010.
*
-13 = 11110011 (2's complement).
* Add the binary numbers:
* 00101010 + 11110011 = 11111101.
* Convert the binary result back to decimal:
* 11111101 = -29.
Therefore, (+42) + (-13) = -29 in binary using 2's complement representation for negative
numbers.
Here are the steps for the second operation, 12810 – 6410:
* Convert the decimal numbers to binary:
* 12810 = 0011001100110010.
* 6410 = 0001100000001010.
* Subtract the binary numbers:
* 0011001100110010 - 0001100000001010 = 0010101100101000.
* Convert the binary result back to decimal: *
0010101100101000 = 6410
b. Briefly discuss four divisions of Number Systems
* Decimal number system: This is the system we use most often in everyday life. It uses ten
digits:
0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, and 9.
* Binary number system: This system is used by computers. It uses only two digits: 0 and 1.
* Octal number system: This system is sometimes used in computing. It uses eight digits: 0, 1, 2,
3,
4, 5, 6, and 7.
* Hexadecimal number system: This system is also sometimes used in computing. It uses sixteen
digits: 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, A, B, C, D, E, and F.
c. Perform the subtraction with the following unsigned binary numbers by taking the 2’s
complement of the subtrahend i) 11010 – 10000 ii) 11010 – 1101 iii) 100 – 110000 iv)1010100 –
1010100 i) 11010 - 10000.
* Take the 2's complement of 10000:
* Invert all the bits: 01111.
* Add 1: 10000.
* Add 11010 and 10000:
11010.
+10000
100010
* Discard the carry bit: 00010.
ii) 11010 - 1101
* Take the 2's complement of 1101:
* Invert all the bits: 0010
* Add 1: 0011
* Add 11010 and 0011:
11010
+00011
11101
iii) 100 - 110000
* Take the 2's complement of 110000:
* Invert all the bits: 001111
* Add 1: 010000.
* Add 100 and 010000:
00100
+010000
010100
iv) 1010100 - 1010100
* Take the 2's complement of 1010100:
* Invert all the bits: 0101011
* Add 1: 0101100
* Add 1010100 and 0101100:
1010100
+0101100.
10000000 *
Discard the carry bit:
0000000
Therefore, the answers are: * ii) 11101
* iii) 010100
* iv) 0000000
* i) 00010
Question 9
In detailed format, describe the following computer terms and give appropriate examples: (i)
Utility (ii) Interpreter (iii) Editor (iv) Assembler (v) Compiler
A utility is a program that performs a general task, such as organizing files, backing up data, or
compressing files. Some examples of utilities include:
* File managers: These programs help you organize your files and folders.
* Backup programs: These programs help you create copies of your files in case your computer
crashes.
* Compression programs: These programs reduce the size of files so they take up less space on
your computer.
(ii) interpreter: An interpreter is a program that translates code into machine code one line at a
time. This is different from a compiler, which translates the entire code into machine code before
running it. Interpreters are often used for scripting languages, such as Python and JavaScript.
(iii) Editor: An editor is a program that allows you to create and modify text files. This includes
programs like Notepad, WordPad, and Microsoft Word. Editors are essential for writing code,
creating documents, and other tasks that involve text. .
(iv)Assembler: An assembler is a program that translates assembly language into machine code.
Assembly language is a low-level programming language that is closer to machine code than
high-level languages like C++ or Java. Assemblers are used to create programs that need to be
very efficient or that need to interact directly with the hardware.
(v) compiler:A compiler is a program that translates source code into machine code. This is a
complex process that involves analyzing the code, optimizing it, and generating machine code
that can be executed by the computer. Compilers are used for many programming languages,
including C++, Java, and C#.
Question 10
Write short notes on each of the following with appropriate examples.(i) Word Processor (ii)
Spreadsheet (iii) Presentation software (iv) Graphics software (v) PHP
(i) A word processor is a computer program that allows you to create and edit text documents.
It's like a powerful typewriter that lets you do things like change fonts, add pictures, and check
your spelling. Some examples of word processors include Microsoft Word, Google Docs, and
LibreOffice Writer.
(ii) spreadsheet
A spreadsheet is a computer program that organizes data in rows and columns. It's like a giant
piece of graph paper that you can use to do calculations, track budgets, and create charts. Some
examples of spreadsheets include Microsoft Excel, Google Sheets, and LibreOffice Calc.
(iii) presentation software
Presentation software is a computer program that helps you create slideshows. You can use it to
add text, images, and videos to your slides, and then present them to an audience. Some
examples of presentation software include Microsoft PowerPoint, Google Slides, and LibreOffice
Impress.
(iv)Graphic software
Graphics software is a computer program that allows you to create and edit images. It can be
used to create everything from simple drawings to complex illustrations. Some examples of
graphics software include Adobe Photoshop, GIMP, and Inkscape.
(v) PHP
PHP is a scripting language that is used to create websites. It is a powerful language that can be
used to do things like process forms, connect to databases, and create dynamic content. Some
examples of websites that use PHP include Facebook, Wikipedia, and WordPress.
Question 11
a. Describe the strengths and limitations of artificial intelligence.
Strengths of AI.
* Efficiency: AI can automate tasks that are repetitive or time-consuming, freeing up humans to
focus on more creative or complex work.
* Accuracy: AI can process information and make decisions without bias, which can lead to more
accurate results than humans.
* 24/7 availability: AI systems can work around the clock, without breaks or rest.
* Improved decision-making: AI can analyze large amounts of data and identify patterns that
humans might miss, which can help to improve decision-making in a variety of fields.
Limitations of AI
* Lack of creativity: AI systems are not yet capable of true creativity or original thought.
* Dependence on data: AI systems are only as good as the data they are trained on. If the data is
biased, the AI system will also be biased.
* Job displacement: As AI becomes more sophisticated, it is possible that it could displace
workers in certain industries.
* Ethical concerns: There are a number of ethical concerns surrounding the use of AI, such as
the
potential for AI to be used for malicious purposes or to create autonomous weapon
b. Discuss the social impact of artificial intelligence to the society.
One potential negative impact of AI is the potential for job displacement. As AI becomes more
sophisticated, it is possible that it could automate many tasks that are currently performed by
humans. This could lead to job losses in a variety of industries, such as manufacturing,
transportation, and customer service.
Another potential negative impact of AI is the potential for bias. AI systems are trained on data,
and if that data is biased, then the AI system will also be biased. This could lead to unfair or
discriminatory outcomes in a variety of areas, such as hiring, lending, and criminal justice.
Question 12
a. The computer software could be divided into two major groups namely System Software and
Application Software. Briefly explain each with examples.
1. System software
* Definition: System software is a type of computer program that manages and controls the
hardware and software resources of a computer system. It provides a platform for other software
to run on.
* Examples: Operating systems (like Windows, macOS, or Linux), device drivers, firmware, and
utilities.
2 Application software
Application Software is designed to help users perform specific tasks or applications. These
programs run on top of the system software and are typically what users interact with on a daily
basis.
*productivity software: Includes applications like Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
that help with creating documents, spreadsheets, and presentations.
*web browser: Programs like Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, and Microsoft Edge that allow
users to browse the internet.
*multimedia software: Applications for creating and managing multimedia content, such as
Adobe Photoshop for image editing and VLC Media Player for playing videos and music.
*Games Software developed for entertainment, such as The Sims, Fortnite, and Among Us.
*mobile Apps: These are designed for mobile devices and include apps like WhatsApp for
messaging, Instagram for social networking, and Google Maps for navigation.
b. Define the terms:
i. Programming (program Design) ii. Algorithm iii. Pseudocode.
i. Programming (Program Design).
Programming is the process of creating instructions for a computer to follow. These instructions
can be used to perform a variety of tasks, such as calculating numbers, creating images, or
playing music. Program design is the first step in the programming process.
ii. Algorithm.
An algorithm is a set of instructions that can be followed to solve a problem. Algorithms are often
used in computer programming to solve complex problems.
Question 13
a. Discuss the following in relation to Cyber ethics: (i) Privacy (ii) Security and crime (iii) Free
expression and content control
(i) Privacy.
Privacy in cyber ethics concerns the right of individuals to control their personal information and
how it is collected, stored, shared, or used. With the proliferation of digital platforms, personal
data has become a valuable.
(ii) Security and Crime.
Security and crime in the digital realm refer to the ethical challenges associated with protecting
systems and individuals from cyber threats.
(iii) Free Expression and Content Control.
The internet serves as a platform for free expression, but it also raises issues around content
control and censorship.
b. Explain the meaning of the term “Cyber ethics” and its two approaches
One approach to cyber ethics is called the professional approach. This approach focuses on the
ethical responsibilities of people who work with computers, like programmers and cybersecurity
experts. It's about making sure they use their skills for good and avoid doing anything that could
harm others.
Another approach is called the professional-personal approach. This approach recognizes that
everyone uses computers, not just professionals. It's about making sure everyone understands
the importance of cyber ethics and how to behave responsibly online.
Question 14
a. Explain the following terms: (i). Machine language (ii).High level language (iii). Assembly and
symbolic language.
(i) Machine Language
Imagine a computer as a brain and instructions as thoughts. Machine language is the only
language a computer's brain can understand directly. It's like a secret code made up of just 0s
and 1s. It's very specific to each type of computer, so it's hard for humans to read and write.
(ii) High-Level Languages
Now, imagine trying to communicate with your friend using only 0s and 1s! That would be tough.
High-level languages are like speaking in English or Spanish. They're easier for humans to
understand because they use words and symbols that resemble our natural language. Popular
examples include Python, JavaScript, and Java.
(iii) Assembly Language
Assembly language is like a bridge between machine language and high-level languages. It's a
bit closer to machine language, using abbreviations and symbols instead of 0s and 1s. It's still
harder for humans to read than high-level languages, but it's closer to what the computer
understands.
Symbolic Language
Symbolic language is another term for assembly language. It uses symbols to represent
operations, making it easier to read and write than machine language.
b. Simplify the following i. 1100 x 101 ii. 10101 x 111 iii. 1111 + 111 + 1111 iv. 101011 –10010
i. 1100 x 101.
1100
x 101
-----
1100
0000
1100
-----
111100
ii. 10101 x 111
10101.
x 111
-----
10101
10101
10101
-----
10010011
iii. 1111 + 111 + 1111
1111 (binary) = 15 (decimal)
111 (binary) = 7 (decimal)
15 + 7 + 15 = 37 (decimal).
Convert back to binary: 37 = 100101
(iv) 101011 - 10010
101011 (binary) = 43 (decimal)
10010 (binary) = 18 (decimal)
43 - 18 = 25 (decimal).
Convert back to binary:25 = 11001 .
Question 15
a. Convert the following Hexadecimal numbers to binary. i) 3B2916 ii) 9C3216 iii) 0A2B16
i) 3B2916
| 3 | 0011 |
| B | 1011 |
| 2 | 0010 |
| 9 | 1001 |
| 1 | 0001 |
| 6 | 0110 |
ii) 9C3216
| 9 | 1001 |
| C | 1100 |
| 3 | 0011 |
| 2 | 0010 |
| 1 | 0001 | |
6 | 0110 | iii)
0A2B16 |
0 | 0000 | |
A | 1010 |
| 2 | 0010 |
| B | 1011 |
| 1 | 0001 | |
6 | 0110 |
B. State 3 advantages of hexadecimal number system over binary number system.
* Conciseness: Hexadecimal numbers are more compact than binary numbers. This means that
hexadecimal numbers can represent the same amount of information with fewer digits.
* Easy conversion: Hexadecimal numbers are easy to convert to and from binary numbers.
* Common use in computing: Hexadecimal numbers are commonly used in computing,
especially in low-level programming and hardware design.
c. Simplify: i. 1111 x 10 ii. 10110 x 110 iii. 10101 x 101 3
i. 1111 x 10
So, 1111 x 10 = 11110
ii. 10110 x 110.
10110
x 110
-----
00000 (10110 x 0)
101100 (10110 x 10)
+1011000 (10110 x 100)
-----
11101100
iii. 10101 x 101
10101
x 101
-----
10101 (10101 x 1)
000000 (10101 x 0)
+1010100 (10101 x 100