Parallel Computing

What is Parallel Computing?

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What is it called when a computer uses more than one CPU in parallel to execute instructions?

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A. B. C. D.

A.

A system with multiple processors is called a multiprocessing system.

Multitasking is incorrect.Multitasking involves sharing the processor amoung all ready processes.Though it appears to the user that multiple processes are executing at the same time, only one process is running at any point in time.

Multithreading is incorrect.The developer can structure a program as a collection of independent threads to achieve better concurrency.For example, one thread of a program might be performing a calculation while another is waiting for additional input from the user.

"Parallel running" is incorrect.This is not a real term and is just a distraction.

References: CBK, pp.

315-316 - AIO3, pp.

234 - 239

The answer to the question is A. Multiprocessing.

Multiprocessing is a technique where a computer system uses more than one CPU (Central Processing Unit) to execute instructions simultaneously or in parallel. This technique is used to increase the processing speed of a computer system and to perform multiple tasks or processes simultaneously.

In multiprocessing, each CPU is assigned a specific task or set of instructions to execute. These instructions may be part of the same program or different programs running simultaneously. Each CPU operates independently and communicates with other CPUs when required to complete the assigned task.

Multiprocessing is different from multitasking and multithreading. Multitasking is a technique where a computer system can perform multiple tasks simultaneously by switching between them quickly, giving the impression that they are running simultaneously. Multithreading is a technique where a single program can execute multiple threads simultaneously, each performing a specific task.

Multiprocessing is commonly used in modern computers, especially in high-performance computing (HPC) systems, servers, and workstations that require a lot of computing power. It is also used in graphics processing units (GPUs) and other specialized hardware that can perform parallel processing.

In conclusion, multiprocessing is a powerful technique that allows a computer system to use multiple CPUs in parallel to execute instructions and perform tasks simultaneously, thereby increasing the processing speed and efficiency of the system.