UGC NET Questions (Paper – 1)

Random access memory is used to store data and instructions that are actively being processed by the CPU. Its contents are quickly accessible, which makes it ideal for primary working storage. However, it is volatile, meaning that its contents are lost when power is switched off. Therefore RAM fits the description given in the stem.

Option A:
Option A, ROM, is non-volatile and stores firmware or startup instructions permanently, so it does not primarily serve as temporary working memory. It retains its content even when the system is powered down.

Option B:
Option B, the hard disk, is secondary storage used for long-term data retention rather than fast, volatile working storage. Access times are slower compared to RAM and it persists after power-off.

Option C:
Option C is correct because RAM is specifically engineered to support high-speed read-write operations during active processing. Its volatility is a well-known characteristic that distinguishes it from permanent storage.

Option D:
Option D, cache on an external drive, is not a standard term for primary memory inside the computer. External drives are considered auxiliary storage and cannot perform the central role of internal RAM in program execution.