What is the central processing unit (CPU) primarily responsible for in a computer?

The central processing unit (CPU) is primarily responsible for executing instructions and processing data, which is fundamental to the operation of a computer. As the brain of the computer, the CPU takes instructions from the computer's memory and performs arithmetic and logical operations based on these instructions. It coordinates the actions of all other components in the system, allowing for the execution of programs, managing tasks, and processing information efficiently.

Storing data permanently is the function of storage devices, such as hard drives or SSDs, not the CPU. Providing power to components is the responsibility of the power supply unit, which converts electrical energy and distributes it throughout the computer. While communicating with external devices is important, this task is generally managed by other components, such as the motherboard and specific controller chips, rather than the CPU itself.