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In simple terms a single processor can only process one machine instruction at a time; it's just not possible to execute two or more instructions simultaneously and therefore not possible to execute 2 programs simultaneously.

However, it's not quite as simple as that because a modern processor can have 2 or more cores, in which case it is possible to execute 2 or more instructions simultaneously. However, that's not quite the same thing as executing 2 programs simultaneously as we invariably execute far more threads of execution than we have cores available.

Note that a program consists of one or more processes and a process consists of one or more threads of execution. Although it is theoretically possible to execute two threads simultaneously upon two cores, when those cores share the same processor they also share the same L2 cache and that's really only beneficial when both threads share the same process. With 2 independent processors there's a better chance of simultaneous program execution, however it's nigh on impossible to guarantee this unless the system is specifically designed for that purpose. In a multi-processing, multi-threaded environment, task-switching makes it next to impossible for any two independent programs to execute simultaneously because every thread has to yield to waiting threads.

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Where are programs copied into for the CPU to read?

Programs are copied into the computer's memory (RAM) for the CPU to read and execute.


What general-purpose computer must have to run other programs?

A general-purpose computer requires an operating system to load and execute other programs.


How does the computer work to process and execute commands?

A computer processes and executes commands by following a series of steps. When a command is given, the computer's processor interprets the command and carries out the necessary operations. This involves fetching data from memory, performing calculations, and storing the results back in memory. The computer's operating system manages this process, coordinating the flow of information between hardware components and software programs to ensure that commands are executed correctly and efficiently.


What is proccessor?

Processor in Personal computer can be called Central Processing Unit[CPU]which acts like the brain of of the computer.It contrals,operates and does all the work governing the computer.


How do the intricate workings of a computer contribute to its overall functionality and performance?

The intricate workings of a computer, including its hardware components and software programs, work together to process data, execute tasks, and perform functions. The hardware components, such as the CPU, memory, and storage devices, handle the physical processing and storage of data. The software programs, including the operating system and applications, control how the hardware components interact and execute tasks. The efficient coordination of these components and programs is essential for the computer to function properly and perform tasks quickly and accurately.

Related Questions

What is parallel processing or processor?

Parallel processing is a processing method that uses multiple processors simultaneously to execute a single program or task Processor is a electronic component on a computer's motherboard that interprets and carries out the basic instructions that operate the computer


What is a processor use for?

Processes mathematical equations as you open/close/execute programs.


What is a processor chip used for?

Processes mathematical equations as you open/close/execute programs.


How many threads can core 2 duo processor execute simutaneously?

Since the core 2 duo processor has two execution units, it can execute two threads simultaneously. (If you said quad instead of duo, the answer would be four.)


Can the processor of a computer system directly execute source programs written in Java?

No. Even using the Java Native Interface, code written in Java is always in a high-level language.


What is the use of word processors?

A central processing unit (CPU) or processor is an electronic circuit that can execute computer programs, which are actually sets of instructions. This term has been in use in the computer industry at least since the early 1960s


What is another name for the processor chip?

Another name for the processor chip is the central processing unit (CPU). It is the core component of a computer system responsible for carrying out instructions to execute programs and perform calculations.


Where are programs copied into for the CPU to read?

Programs are copied into the computer's memory (RAM) for the CPU to read and execute.


What does MIPS stand for and how is it relevant in the context of computer processors?

MIPS stands for Millions of Instructions Per Second. It is a measure of the processing speed of a computer processor, indicating how many instructions it can execute in one second. In the context of computer processors, MIPS is relevant as it helps determine the performance and efficiency of a processor in handling tasks and running programs. A higher MIPS value generally indicates a faster and more powerful processor.


What general-purpose computer must have to run other programs?

A general-purpose computer requires an operating system to load and execute other programs.


Comparision between superscaler and super pipelined processor?

Superscalar machines execute regular sequential programs. The programmer is unaware of the parallelism.


What is the difference between concurrent processing and simultaneous processing. A single processor can execute two processes concurrently but not simultaneously Why?

Single processor can execute 2 process concurrently means when one is doing i/o activity at tht time another is executing.. but not possible tht both are executing cpu at same time