Computer Science Flashcards

What is the purpose of a DNS (Domain Name System) server?

Answer: To translate domain names into IP addresses

DNS servers translate human-readable domain names (like www.example.com) into numerical IP addresses that computers use to identify each other on the network.

In programming, what is a recursive function?

Answer: A function that calls itself

A recursive function is one that calls itself within its own definition, typically breaking a problem into smaller subproblems until reaching a base case.

What is the primary function of an operating system's kernel?

Answer: To manage hardware resources and provide services to applications

The kernel is the core of an operating system that manages hardware resources (CPU, memory, I/O devices) and provides essential services that applications need to run.

Which sorting algorithm has the best average-case time complexity?

Answer: Merge sort with O(n log n)

Merge sort has an average (and worst-case) time complexity of O(n log n), which is optimal for comparison-based sorting algorithms.

What does the acronym API stand for in software development?

Answer: Application Programming Interface

API stands for Application Programming Interface, which defines how software components should interact and communicate with each other.

What is the difference between RAM and ROM in a computer system?

Answer: RAM is volatile and loses data when powered off; ROM retains data permanently

RAM (Random Access Memory) is volatile and loses all stored data when power is removed. ROM (Read-Only Memory) is non-volatile and retains its data permanently, typically storing firmware and boot instructions.