What is a computer?

What is a computer?

• A. A device that only stores data.
• B. An electronic device used to store and process information.
• C. A software program.
• D. A network.

Answer: (B)

A computer is an electronic device that stores information and processes it according to instructions. This means it can take in data, run programs to manipulate that data, and produce results, while also saving information for later use. The ability to both store and process data distinguishes it from other things. For example, a software program is just a set of instructions, not the machine itself; a network is a system of connected devices; and a device that only stores data lacks the processing capability that turns data into useful results. So the best description is an electronic device used to store and process information.

A computer is an electronic device that stores information and processes it according to instructions. This means it can take in data, run programs to manipulate that data, and produce results, while also saving information for later use. The ability to both store and process data distinguishes it from other things. For example, a software program is just a set of instructions, not the machine itself; a network is a system of connected devices; and a device that only stores data lacks the processing capability that turns data into useful results. So the best description is an electronic device used to store and process information.