A CPU, short for Central Processing Unit, is the main component of a computer that carries out most of the computer’s calculations and tasks. It is like the brain of the computer. The CPU is responsible for executing instructions, performing calculations, and coordinating the activities of all the other hardware components in the computer.

A CPU consists of many tiny electronic components built onto a small piece of silicon called a semiconductor. These components include transistors, which act as switches and control the flow of electricity within the CPU. Billions of transistors are packed onto a single CPU chip, allowing it to perform billions or even trillions of calculations per second.

The CPU works by fetching instructions stored in the computer’s memory, decoding them, executing the necessary operations, and storing the results back in memory. It performs a wide range of tasks, including running programs, handling data, and managing input and output devices like keyboards, monitors, and printers.

Over the years, CPUs have become faster, smaller, and more powerful, enabling computers to perform complex tasks and run resource-intensive software. Modern CPUs often have multiple cores, which allow them to work on multiple tasks simultaneously, increasing the overall speed and efficiency of the computer.