ALU
Arithmetic Logic Unit performs arithmetic (add, subtract, multiply) and logical (AND, OR, NOT) operations on operands. ALU is core computation component. Operations complete in single or few cycles. Result flags indicate outcomes.
Real World
When Spotify adjusts your volume, the ALU in your phone's processor performs the multiply operation on each audio sample thousands of times per second to scale the waveform louder or quieter.
Exam Focus
Distinguish arithmetic operations from logical operations — examiners expect both categories with examples of each.
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