Sample Solution from
Starting Out with C++ from Control Structures to Objects (9th Edition)
9th Edition
ISBN: 9780134498379
Chapter 1
Problem 1RQE
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Explanation of Solution

Difference between main memory and secondary storage:

Main Memory Secondary storage
In Main memory or Random Access Memory (RAM), the data is directly accessed by the processing unit. In secondary storage, the data is transferred to the main memory and then routed to the processing unit.
Main memory is volatile, which means the information stored in the memory would be erased when the computer is turned off. Secondary storage is non-volatile, which means the information stored in the memory is not erased when the computer is turned off.
Main memory has a limited storage capacity. Secondary storage can store bulk amount of data in a single unit.
Main memory devices are more expensive when compared to the secondary storage devices. Secondary storage devices are less expensive when compared to the main memory devices.

The examples of main memory are,

  • RAM
  • ROM
  • EPROM
  • PROM
  • Cache memory
  • Registers.

The examples of secondary storage  are,

  • Floppy Disks
  • Magnetic tapes
  • Optical Disc
  • Flash memory.

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