In which component of a computer are data added and compared?

Concept

A computer separates processing from storage. Storage devices retain data, whereas the central processing unit (CPU) executes instructions on data.

Inside the CPU, the arithmetic logic unit (ALU) performs arithmetic operations such as addition and logical operations such as comparison.

Application

The question asks for the component in which both addition and comparison occur. These are ALU functions, and the ALU is a functional unit of the CPU chip.

Contrast

• A hard disk retains files and programs as non-volatile secondary storage.

• A floppy disk is removable magnetic secondary storage.

• A memory chip holds data and instructions for rapid access, but it does not execute the arithmetic or comparison operation.

Cross-check

Following the data path gives the same distinction: data may be read from storage or memory, but the instruction that adds or compares those data is executed by the ALU within the CPU.

Therefore, the data are added and compared in the CPU chip, specifically in its ALU.