Concept:
The CPU operates at extremely high speed. To reduce the delay caused by accessing data from slower memory devices, computers use cache memory, which stores frequently used instructions and data close to the processor.
Step 1: Understand cache memory.
Cache memory is a small but very fast memory located inside or near the CPU.
Its purpose is to:
• Store frequently used instructions.
• Store frequently used data.
• Reduce memory access time.
• Improve overall system performance.
Step 2: Why cache memory is needed.
Accessing data from RAM or hard disks takes more time than accessing data from cache.
By storing frequently required information, cache memory minimizes waiting time for the processor.
Step 3: Evaluate the options.
Pen drives are portable storage devices.
CD-ROMs are optical storage media.
Hard disks are secondary storage devices.
Only cache memory is specifically designed for rapid access by the CPU.
Step 4: Conclusion.
Thus, cache memory stores frequently accessed instructions for faster processing.
Hence, option (A) is correct.