Software – System vs application software, OS overview Quiz - ICSE Class 11 Computer Science

Free practice quiz: Software – System vs application software, OS overview (ICSE Class 11 Computer Science). 52 multiple-choice questions with answers and explanations. Play online, no sign-up needed.

Sample questions

1. Which of the following is a primary function of an Operating System?

   1. To create user-defined applications
   2. To manage hardware resources and provide a platform for software execution
   3. To perform complex mathematical calculations
   4. To design graphical user interfaces for individual applications
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   Answer: B. To manage hardware resources and provide a platform for software execution

   The core responsibility of an Operating System (OS) is to act as an intermediary between the hardware and the user/application software. This involves managing critical resources like the CPU, memory, and I/O devices, and providing a consistent environment for applications to run.

2. Which of the following is an example of utility software that often comes bundled with an operating system?

   1. A web browser
   2. A text editor
   3. A disk cleanup tool
   4. A spreadsheet program
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   Answer: C. A disk cleanup tool

   Utility software performs maintenance or system-related functions. Disk cleanup tools are common utilities that help manage disk space, often provided as part of the OS. Web browsers, text editors, and spreadsheet programs are typically application software.

3. The primary role of the Memory Manager in an OS is to:

   1. Schedule CPU time for processes
   2. Manage the allocation and deallocation of main memory (RAM) to processes
   3. Control access to storage devices
   4. Provide a user interface for interacting with the system
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   Answer: B. Manage the allocation and deallocation of main memory (RAM) to processes

   The Memory Manager is responsible for keeping track of which parts of memory are currently being used and by whom, allocating memory to processes when they need it, and deallocating it when they are done to prevent conflicts and optimize usage.

4. Which of the following describes the concept of 'thread' in an operating system context?

   1. A complete, independent program running on the system
   2. A fundamental unit of CPU scheduling, representing a single sequence of execution within a process
   3. A logical grouping of files on a storage device
   4. A hardware component that controls input/output operations
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   Answer: B. A fundamental unit of CPU scheduling, representing a single sequence of execution within a process

   A thread is a lightweight process, sharing resources with other threads within the same process but having its own execution context. Threads allow for finer-grained concurrency within a single application.

5. The operating system's ability to create and manage multiple processes that can run concurrently is a key feature that enables:

   1. Data encryption
   2. Network communication
   3. Multitasking and responsiveness
   4. Graphical user interface rendering
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   Answer: C. Multitasking and responsiveness

   By managing multiple processes, the OS can switch between them, allowing the system to remain responsive to user input while background tasks are also being executed.

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