Class 8 | Lesson 1 - Fundamentals of Computer | Introduction to ICT - Questions & Answers | Assam SCERT Book 2025-26
1. Fill in the blanks:
a) The word ‘computer’ comes from the Latin word ______.
b) Computers give ______ results.
c) ______ was built during World War II.
d) Microcomputers are small in ______.
e) ______ are the largest and fastest computers.
Answer:
a) The word ‘computer’ comes from the Latin word compute.
b) Computers give accurate results.
c) ENIAC was built during World War II.
d) Microcomputers are small in size.
e) Supercomputers are the largest and fastest computers.
2. Match column A with column B:
| Column A | Column B |
|---|---|
| First Generation | Microprocessors |
| Second Generation | Integrated circuits |
| Third Generation | Vacuum tubes |
| Fourth Generation | Parallel processing hardware |
| Fifth Generation | Transistors |
Answer:
| Column A | Column B |
|---|---|
| First Generation | Vacuum tubes |
| Second Generation | Transistors |
| Third Generation | Integrated circuits |
| Fourth Generation | Microprocessors |
| Fifth Generation | Parallel processing hardware |
3. Answer the following questions:
a) Who developed the Difference Engine?
Answer: Charles Babbage developed the Difference Engine.
b) Name three eGovernance services available in India.
Answer: The three e-Governance services available in India are - mAadhaar, DigiLocker and Digital India.
c) Give two examples for each generation of computers.
Answer:
First Generation: ENIAC, UNIVAC
Second Generation: CDC 3600, IBM 7094
Third Generation: IBM 370, Honeywell 6000
Fourth Generation: IBM PC, Apple
Fifth Generation: Chrombook, Notebook with AI
d) Describe the use of computers in schools and healthcare industries.
Answer: In schools, teachers use computers in the teaching-learning process, to keep students records, to store documents etc.
In healthcare industries, computers are used to record patient’s details. Computers are used in medical imaging (such as MRI and X-rays), telemedicine for remote consultations, and in monitoring patient health through life-support systems.
e) What are the different categories of computers based on their physical size and computing capabilities?
Answer: The different categories of computers based on their physical size and computing capabilities are:
- Microcomputers
- Minicomputers
- Mainframe computers
- Supercomputers
f) What are the different categories of computers based on their operating principles?
Answer: The different categories of computers based on their operating principles are:
- Analog Computers
- Digital Computers
- Hybrid Computers
4. Write short notes on –
a) Supercomputers
b) Fourth generation computers
c) Hybrid computers
Answer:
a) Supercomputers: Supercomputers are the fastest and most powerful computers, capable of processing huge amounts of data at extremely high speeds. They are used in weather forecasting, scientific research, space exploration etc.
b) Fourth Generation Computers: Fourth-generation computers use microprocessors. These computers are smaller, faster, and more affordable than previous generations. Examples include the IBM PC and Apple.
c) Hybrid Computers: Hybrid computers combine the features of analog and digital computers. They are used in medical equipment like ECG machines and in scientific and industrial applications where both types of data are needed.
