CPU stands for Central Processing Unit. It is the primary component of a computer that performs the majority of the processing and computations. The CPU is often referred to as the "brain" of the computer because it is responsible for executing instructions and controlling the flow of data within the computer system.
The CPU is composed of several components, including the control unit, arithmetic logic unit (ALU), and registers. The control unit fetches instructions from memory, decodes them, and directs the ALU to execute them. The ALU performs mathematical and logical operations, such as addition, subtraction, multiplication, and comparison.
Registers are small storage areas within the CPU that store temporary data, such as the results of calculations or data being transferred between different parts of the CPU. The CPU communicates with other components of the computer, such as memory and input/output devices, through a bus system.
In summary, the CPU is a critical component of a computer that executes instructions and performs computations, allowing the computer to perform tasks and run programs.