Which of the following statements about primary and secondary memory is correct in a computer system?

Correct option is C

The correct answer is: (C) Primary memory is faster but has lower storage capacity, while secondary memory is slower but provides large storage capacity.

• Primary memory (like RAM) is used for temporary data storage while the computer is running. It is fast but typically has limited capacity.

• Secondary memory (like Hard Drives, SSDs, and USB drives) is used for permanent data storage and offers larger capacity, but it is slower compared to primary memory.

• The CPU directly accesses primary memory for immediate data processing, but secondary memory must be loaded into primary memory before use.

• Hence, option C correctly distinguishes them based on speed and capacity.

• Primary Memory:

  • Examples: RAM, ROM, Cache memory

  • Volatile (RAM loses data when power is off), except for ROM

  • Directly accessible by the CPU

• Secondary Memory:

  • Examples: HDD, SSD, CDs, DVDs, USB drives

  • Non-volatile (retains data even when power is off)

  • Used for long-term storage and data backup

• Option A is incorrect: it's actually reversed — secondary memory is for long-term, primary for temporary.

• Option B is incorrect: only primary memory is directly accessed by the CPU; secondary must go through I/O operations.

• Option D is incorrect: secondary memory is non-volatile, while primary memory (RAM) is typically volatile.

• Understanding memory hierarchy is critical for computer performance — Cache > RAM > SSD > HDD in terms of speed.