Oxford, Cambridge and RSA (OCR) GCSE Computer Science Practice Exam

The correct choice is Cache. Cache memory is a type of high-speed volatile memory that stores frequently accessed data and instructions, allowing for quicker retrieval by the CPU compared to accessing data from the main RAM. Because cache memory is located closer to the processor and operates at a higher speed, it significantly reduces latency and improves overall performance of computing tasks.

When the CPU needs data, it first checks the cache, which is designed to be much faster than the traditional RAM. This makes it well-suited for storing copies of frequently used data and instructions, providing a rapid data access path that enhances processing efficiency.

In contrast, non-volatile memory retains information even when the power is off, but it is not tailored for quick access like cache. RAM (Random Access Memory) is essential for temporary data storage during operations but is slower than cache. Virtual memory, on the other hand, uses a portion of the hard drive to simulate additional RAM but involves greater latency, as accessing data from storage devices is much slower than accessing data from cache memory.