Part of computer which does addition, subtraction, multiplication, division and comparison is :

Question

Accepted Answer

The correct option is (1):
The **ALU (Arithmetic Logic Unit)** is rightly considered the computational heart of the Central Processing Unit (CPU). Its exclusive and fundamental role is to execute all arithmetic and logical data processing operations required by the computer's instructions. Specifically, the ALU is segregated into two parts: the **Arithmetic Unit**, which handles all mathematical calculations such as addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division, and the **Logic Unit**, which performs logical operations like comparisons (checking for greater than, less than, or equality) and Boolean operations (AND, OR, NOT). When the CPU is directed to perform a calculation, the Control Unit sends the necessary operands and the specific instruction to the ALU, which then produces the result.

The incorrect option is (2):
**Memory** (or main memory/RAM) serves a vastly different purpose in the computer system. Its primary function is to provide temporary, high-speed storage for the data and instructions that the CPU is *currently* processing. Memory acts as a volatile workspace for active data, holding operands and intermediate results that the CPU needs for quick access. It receives data from input devices and sends data to the ALU for processing, but it does not possess the circuitry to execute the mathematical or logical instructions itself. It is a storage facility, not a computational component.

The incorrect option is (3):
The **CPU (Central Processing Unit)** is the "brain" of the computer, but it is a complex, overarching component that *contains* the ALU, not the part that exclusively performs the listed operations. The CPU's overall role involves fetching instructions from memory, decoding them, and then executing them. It delegates the specific task of arithmetic and comparison operations to its internal Arithmetic Logic Unit. Think of the CPU as the entire processing department, which includes the specialized ALU worker responsible for calculations and comparisons.

The incorrect option is (4):
The **Control** part refers to the Control Unit (CU), which is another crucial component within the CPU that acts as a manager. Its main job is to interpret the program instructions and issue control signals to other components, thereby coordinating the entire system's operation. For example, it tells the ALU *which* operation to perform (like addition) and coordinates the movement of data to and from memory. The Control Unit directs the task but does not perform the actual arithmetic or comparison calculations itself; that physical work is strictly the ALU's responsibility.