Different organisations use different types of computer depending on their needs. Study the diagram. (a) A weather forecasting centre uses a supercomputer. ...

(a) A supercomputer is needed for weather forecasting because it requires processing vast amounts of meteorological data collected from thousands of weather stations, satellites and sensors simultaneously. [1] A supercomputer has the immense processing power needed to run complex mathematical climate models quickly enough to produce accurate forecasts before the actual weather arrives. [1] Ordinary computers would take too long to complete these calculations.

(b) A mainframe is suitable for the hospital because it can handle many users simultaneously, allowing hundreds of doctors, nurses, administrators and laboratory staff to access patient records and hospital systems at the same time. [1] It also provides the high reliability, data integrity and security needed for handling sensitive patient data that must be available around the clock (24/7). [1]

(c) Two reasons desktops are suitable for the school:

1. Desktop computers are relatively affordable to purchase in bulk, making it cost-effective to equip an entire computer room with enough machines for a full class. [1]
2. They are powerful enough to run educational software, web browsers and office applications, and they are easy to set up and maintain in a fixed location where students use them in scheduled lessons. [1]