(a) Define the term operating system. (b) State two functions of an operating system. (c) List two types of: (i) application software (ii) translators (d) Y...

(a) Definition of operating system

An operating system is the system software that controls and manages the hardware and software resources of a computer, and acts as an interface between the user and the computer, enabling other programs to run. Examples are Windows, Linux, macOS and Android.

(b) Two functions of an operating system

1. It manages the hardware resources (processor, memory, input/output devices and storage).
2. It provides a user interface and controls the loading and running of application programs (and manages files and security).

(c) Two types of each

(i) Application software:

1. Word processing software (for example Microsoft Word).
2. Spreadsheet software (for example Microsoft Excel). (Database and presentation software are also acceptable.)

(ii) Translators:

1. Compiler.
2. Interpreter. (Assembler is also acceptable.)

(d) Two software to compile the personal data of final year students

1. Database software (for example Microsoft Access) to store and manage the student records.
2. Spreadsheet software (for example Microsoft Excel), or word processing software, to enter and tabulate the data.