Which of the following best defines computer hardware?

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BlackTom AI · Accepted Answer

The question asks: 'Which of the following best defines computer hardware?'

First, I note that there are no answer options provided in the answer_options field. Without options to evaluate, we can only discuss what hardware is and why the given option (found in the answer field) does not define hardware.

- Given option (from the answer field): 'The instructions given to the computer.' This statement describes software, which consists of the programs and data that tell the computer how to perform tasks. Software is intangible and runs on the hardware, whereas hardware refers to the physical, tangible components of the computer (such as the CPU, memory, storage devices, motherboard, power supply, peripheral devices, and other circuits and connectors).

- In general terms, hardware is defined as the physical components of a computer system that you can touch. It includes:
  - Processing components like the CPU (central processing unit) and sometimes the GPU (graphics processing unit)
  - Memory components like RAM (random-access memory) and cache
  - Storage devices like HDDs, SSDs, and optical drives
  - Input/output devices and interfaces like keyboards, mice, monitors, ports, and cables
  - Motherboard, power supply, cooling systems, and other hardware subsystems

- Why the given option is not correct:
  - It identifies 'instructions' rather than physical parts, which aligns with software, not hardware.
  - It confuses the relationship between hardware and software, a common misconception.

- Since no other options are provided, we cannot assess alternative statements. If options were present, we would compare each against the standard definition: hardware = physical components of the computer, distinct from software (programs and data).

- In summary, hardware refers to the tangible parts of a computer, while the offered option describes software. The lack of answer options prevents selecting a defined correct choice from this list, but the principle remains: the correct definition should point to physical components, not the instructions that software provides.

CSC2204-1.8AC1.AUG2025 Mid Semester Quiz

Which of the following best defines computer hardware?

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