UNIT 1: Introduction to Systems Grade Pre-9
Q1: What is Systems Theory?
A: Systems Theory is a branch of science that deals with complex structures in living organisms
and their relation to society. It helps explain how systems and sub-systems operate, grow, and
change over time. It provides a way of interpreting the world with varied perspectives.
Q2: At what levels can systems be observed?
A: Systems can be observed at natural levels, such as in living organisms, and at human-
designed levels, such as machines and organizations. They exist in both physical objects like cars
and in processes like admissions. This shows that systems are present everywhere, from nature to
human creations.
Q3: What are the basic components of a system?
A: A system is described by its objectives, components, communication, and environment. Each
component interacts with others to achieve the system’s purpose. Without these elements, a
system cannot function properly.
Q4: Why does every system need an objective?
A: Every system has a purpose or goal that guides its operation. For example, a transport system
aims to transfer people safely, while a computer system provides information. Understanding the
objective helps improve the system’s efficiency.
Q5: What are the main types of system objectives?
A: The three types are processing information, supporting other systems, and achieving specific
goals. For example, the brain processes information, a cell phone supports apps, and a thermostat
maintains temperature. These objectives explain the role each system plays.
Q6: Why are components important in a system?
A: Components are the building blocks that allow a system to work. Each plays a specific role
that contributes to the overall function. Smooth coordination of all components ensures the
system meets its objectives.
Q7: What is meant by the environment of a system?
A: The environment includes all external factors that interact with the system. It provides inputs
and receives outputs, influencing how the system works. A system must adjust to changes in its
environment to stay functional.
Q8: What is the difference between static and dynamic environments?
A: A static environment does not change during the system’s operation. A dynamic environment
changes independently of the system and requires adaptability. Systems must handle both
situations depending on their purpose.
Q9: How do deterministic and non-deterministic systems differ?
A: Deterministic systems have predictable and certain outputs based on given inputs. Non-
deterministic systems show uncertainty and randomness in their results. This distinction is
important in designing reliable systems.
UNIT 1: Introduction to Systems Grade Pre-9
Q10: Why is communication essential in a system?
A: Communication ensures that system components interact smoothly to achieve objectives. For
example, the CPU communicates with memory in a computer, and the brain sends signals to
muscles in the body. Without communication, a system cannot function properly.
Q11: What are the two main types of systems?
A: Systems are broadly categorized into natural systems and artificial systems. Natural
systems occur in nature without human involvement, while artificial systems are created by
humans for specific purposes. Understanding both types helps apply system theory across
different fields.
Q12: What are natural systems?
A: Natural systems develop independently of human involvement and are governed by natural
laws and processes. They can be very small like atoms or very large like oceans and the cosmos.
Examples include forests, rivers, and the solar system.
Q13: What are physical systems?
A: Physical systems are governed by the laws of physics. They include matter formed from
interactions of sub-atomic particles like protons, electrons, and neutrons. For example, hydrogen
gas (H) forms naturally when these particles combine.
Q14: What are chemical systems?
A: Chemical systems involve substances, their interactions, and transformations. They emerge
when atoms and molecules bond to form new substances according to chemical laws. For
example, water (H₂O) forms when hydrogen and oxygen combine.
Q15: What are biological systems?
A: Biological systems consist of living organisms and are governed by biological processes like
growth and metabolism. They emerge when molecules interact to form cells, tissues, and organs.
For example, the human body is a biological system.
Q16: What are psychological systems?
A: Psychological systems involve the human mind and behavior. They deal with thoughts,
emotions, and mental processes governed by psychology. For example, decision-making and
emotions are parts of psychological systems.
Q17: What are artificial systems?
A: Artificial systems are created by humans to fulfill specific needs or solve problems. They can
be small like a wheel or large like the United Nations. Examples include knowledge systems,
engineering systems, and social systems.
Q18: What are knowledge systems?
A: Knowledge systems are designed to capture, process, store, and manage information. They
help in learning, decision-making, and problem-solving. Examples include mathematics, logic,
and databases.
UNIT 1: Introduction to Systems Grade Pre-9
Q19: What are engineering systems?
A: Engineering systems apply engineering concepts to design products and devices for solving
technical challenges. Examples include civil systems like bridges, mechanical systems like
robotic arms, and software systems like library management tools. These systems improve
productivity and solve real-world problems.
Q20: What are social systems?
A: Social systems are structured frameworks created by humans to organize governance and
community life. They include academic institutions, governments, and organizations. Their main
goal is to maintain order and provide services to society.
Q21: What is the difference between natural science and design science?
A: Natural science focuses on describing and understanding natural systems, while design
science creates new systems to solve problems. Natural science is descriptive in nature, whereas
design science is prescriptive. Both types complement each other in exploring and creating
systems.
Q22: What is natural science?
A: Natural science studies the objectivity and functionality of natural systems in the real world.
It follows the empirical cycle to observe, test, and explain natural phenomena. For example,
studying how different species interact in a forest ecosystem.
Q23: What is design science?
A: Design science is concerned with creating and improving artificial systems, tools, or methods
to achieve specific goals. It follows the regulative cycle and prescribes solutions. For example,
developing software to manage forest data and improve conservation.
Q24: How is computer science related to natural and design science?
A: Computer science uses both natural science and design science methods. Natural science in
computing focuses on studying algorithms and their performance. Design science in computing
creates new programming tools, languages, and efficient systems.
Q25: Give an example of natural and design science in computer science.
A: In natural science, researchers study sorting algorithms like QuickSort and MergeSort to
analyze their efficiency. In design science, they create new software or programming languages
to improve computer systems. Both approaches help computer science grow as a field.
Q26: What is the main objective of a computer system?
A: The objective of a computer is to perform computations, process data, and execute tasks
efficiently. It is designed to follow a set of instructions quickly and accurately. For example, a
personal computer runs applications like word processors, browsers, and games.
Q27: What are interface components of a computer?
A: Interface components allow users to interact with the computer. Input devices like the
keyboard and mouse provide data, while output devices like monitors and printers display
results. They serve as the bridge between the user and the system.
UNIT 1: Introduction to Systems Grade Pre-9
Q28: What are processing components of a computer?
A: Processing components include the CPU, RAM, storage devices, operating system, and
application software. The CPU executes instructions, RAM stores temporary data, and storage
devices keep permanent data. The operating system and applications help perform tasks for the
user.
Q29: What are communication components of a computer?
A: Communication components connect different parts of the system. The motherboard links all
hardware, while the system bus transfers data, addresses, and control signals between
components. These ensure smooth communication and functioning of the computer.
Q30: How do computer components interact with each other?
A: Components work together seamlessly to perform tasks. For example, when you double-click
a file, the input device sends a signal, the operating system processes it, and the output device
displays the file. This shows the coordinated action of multiple components.
Q31: What is meant by the environment of a computer system?
A: The environment includes external elements that support or extend the computer’s operation.
These include the power supply, networks, and peripherals like printers and scanners. They
enable the computer to function properly and expand its capabilities.
Q32: How does a computer interact with its environment?
A: A computer interacts with its environment through user input, networks, and power supply.
For example, typing on a keyboard displays text on screen, while the internet allows data
exchange. Without these interactions, the computer cannot perform effectively.
Q33: What is the Von Neumann architecture?
A: The Von Neumann architecture is a computer model with four main components: memory,
CPU, input devices, and output devices. It was proposed by John von Neumann in the 1940s.
This design is still the basis of most modern computers.
Q34: What is the role of memory in Von Neumann architecture?
A: Memory stores both data and program instructions in the same location. This allows the CPU
to quickly fetch instructions and data when needed. For example, RAM stores running programs
for fast execution.
Q35: What are the two main parts of the CPU?
A: The CPU has the Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU) and the Control Unit (CU). The ALU
performs mathematical and logical operations, while the CU directs data flow and supervises
operations. Together, they execute program instructions efficiently.
Q36: What is the function of input devices?
A: Input devices allow users to send data and instructions to the computer. Examples include the
keyboard, mouse, and microphone. They act as the communication channel from the user to the
CPU.
UNIT 1: Introduction to Systems Grade Pre-9
Q37: What is the function of output devices?
A: Output devices display or present the processed results from the computer. Examples include
monitors and printers. They make computer results understandable and usable for humans.
Q38: What are the stages of instruction execution in Von Neumann architecture?
A: The CPU follows three main stages: Fetch, Decode, and Execute. In Fetch, instructions are
retrieved from memory; in Decode, the CU interprets them; and in Execute, the ALU or CU
carries out the task. The result is then stored or sent to an output device.
Q39: What is the stored program concept?
A: The stored program concept means both data and instructions are kept in the same memory.
Programs can be modified easily by changing memory contents. This allows flexibility and
updating of software.
Q40: What is meant by sequential execution?
A: Sequential execution means instructions are processed one after another in order. The CPU
follows the program step by step. This ensures accurate and logical execution of tasks.
Q41: What is the Von Neumann bottleneck?
A: The Von Neumann bottleneck happens because data and instructions share the same memory.
This slows down the CPU when both need to be fetched at the same time. It is a limitation of this
architecture.
Q42: What are the advantages and disadvantages of Von Neumann architecture?
A: Advantages include simple design and flexibility to update programs easily. Disadvantages
include the Von Neumann bottleneck and security risks, since data and instructions share the
same memory. Despite this, it remains the foundation of modern computer systems.
Q43: What is a computing system?
A: A computing system is a set of components designed to process data and perform various
operations. It ranges from simple devices like calculators to complex networks of linked
computers. Its basic task is to execute programs and manage data.
Q44: What are the three basic requirements of a computing system?
A: The three basic requirements are hardware, software, and electricity. Hardware refers to
tangible parts like CPU, RAM, and input/output devices. Software gives instructions, while
electricity powers the whole system.
Q45: What is the difference between system software and application software?
A: System software includes the operating system and utilities that manage computer resources,
like Windows or Linux. Application software is designed for user tasks such as word processing,
browsing, or gaming. Both are essential for smooth computer operation.
Q46: What is a computer network?
A: A computer network is a system that connects multiple computers and devices for sharing
UNIT 1: Introduction to Systems Grade Pre-9
resources and communication. It allows users to share files, printers, and internet access.
Networks also help in efficient data management and collaboration.
Q47: What are the objectives of computer networks?
A: The main objectives are resource sharing, communication, and data management. They allow
multiple users to access files and devices like printers. They also enable collaboration through
easy data exchange.
Q48: What are the two main types of computer networks?
A: The two main types are LAN (Local Area Network) and WAN (Wide Area Network). LAN
connects devices in a small area like an office or school. WAN connects computers over large
areas, such as the Internet.
Q49: What is the Internet as a system?
A: The Internet is a vast global system connecting millions of networks worldwide. It includes
private, public, academic, business, and government networks. Its main purpose is to enable
communication and data exchange globally.
Q50: What are TCP/IP protocols?
A: TCP/IP are the core protocols of the Internet that manage data transmission. TCP ensures
reliable delivery, while IP manages addressing and routing. Together, they make global
communication possible.
Q51: What is the role of other Internet protocols like UDP and FTP?
A: UDP provides faster communication but with less reliability compared to TCP. FTP is used to
transfer files between computers. These protocols serve different purposes to support internet
functions.
Q52: In what environment does the Internet operate?
A: The Internet operates in a dynamic and diverse environment, including homes, offices, data
centers, and mobile networks. These environments affect its design, speed, and security. This
makes the Internet adaptable to various needs worldwide.
Exercise Questions
Define a system. What are its basic components?
A system is a collection of parts that work together to achieve a specific purpose. Its basic
components include input, processing, output, and feedback. Each part interacts with the others
to ensure smooth functioning.
Differentiate between natural and artificial systems.
Natural systems exist in nature, such as ecosystems or the solar system. Artificial systems are
created by humans, like computer systems or machines. Both follow certain rules, but natural
systems are descriptive while artificial systems are prescriptive.
UNIT 1: Introduction to Systems Grade Pre-9
Describe natural and design sciences.
Natural science focuses on studying and describing natural phenomena, like ecosystems, using
the empirical cycle. Design science focuses on creating new systems or artifacts, like developing
software, using the regulative cycle. Both help expand knowledge and solve problems
differently.
List and describe the types of computing systems.
The main types of computing systems include computers, software systems, computer networks,
and the Internet. Computers perform tasks with hardware and software. Networks and the
Internet connect multiple computers for communication and resource sharing.
What are the main components of the Von Neumann architecture?
The Von Neumann architecture has four main components: memory, CPU, input devices, and
output devices. The CPU itself is divided into the Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU) and the Control
Unit (CU). These components work together to process data and execute instructions.
What is the Von Neumann computer architecture? List its key components.
It is a computer model developed in the 1940s that describes how modern computers operate. Its
key components are memory, CPU (ALU and CU), input devices, output devices, and the system
bus. This design became the foundation for most computers today.
What are the four main steps in the Von Neumann architecture's instruction cycle?
The four steps are fetching, decoding, execution, and storage. The CPU fetches an instruction
from memory, decodes it to understand the task, and executes it using the ALU or CU. Finally,
the result is stored in memory or sent to an output device.
What is the Von Neumann bottleneck?
The Von Neumann bottleneck occurs when both data and instructions use the same memory
pathway. This slows down the CPU because it cannot fetch instructions and data simultaneously.
As a result, system performance is limited.
What is a key advantage of the Von Neumann architecture?
A key advantage is its simplified and flexible design. Both data and instructions are stored in the
same memory, making programming easier. This allows programs to be updated or modified
directly in memory.
What are the three main requirements for a computing system to function?
The three requirements are hardware, software, and electricity. Hardware provides the physical
parts, such as CPU and RAM. Software gives instructions, while electricity powers the whole
system.
