What component of the CPU is responsible for performing arithmetic and Boolean operations?

The Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU) is the component of the CPU that is specifically designed to carry out arithmetic operations (such as addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division) as well as Boolean operations (which involve logical operations like AND, OR, NOT). This functionality is crucial for executing instructions and performing calculations that are essential for the operation of programs.

The ALU operates under the control of the Control Unit, which orchestrates the overall operation of the CPU by directing the flow of data between different components, including the ALU, but it does not perform the calculations itself. Cache memory, on the other hand, serves as a high-speed storage mechanism to temporarily hold frequently accessed data and instructions, improving efficiency but is not involved in processing operations. Registers are small storage locations within the CPU that hold temporary data and instructions required during processing, but they do not carry out arithmetic or logical operations directly.

Thus, the ALU plays a foundational role in enabling the CPU to perform the mathematical and logical computations necessary for executing programs.