An Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU) is a fundamental component of a computer's central processing unit (CPU) that performs arithmetic and logic operations. The ALU executes operations such as addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, and logical operations like AND, OR, NOT, and XOR.
The ALU can handle basic mathematical calculations. For instance, it can add two numbers, subtract one number from another, or multiply and divide numbers.
The ALU can perform logical operations on binary numbers. These operations include
Outputs 1 only if both inputs are 1.
Outputs 1 if at least one of the inputs is 1.
Inverts the input (0 becomes 1 and vice versa).
Outputs 1 if exactly one of the inputs is 1.
It can perform operations on individual bits of binary numbers, such as shifting bits to the left or right.
The ALU can compare numbers to determine if one is greater than, less than, or equal to another.
The results of these operations are then sent to other parts of the CPU or memory for further processing. The ALU is essential for executing the instructions of a computer program, making it a crucial component for computing and data manipulation tasks.
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