4.1.5. Components Required in CPU for Procedure Call

Try these first

1. 1.

   What is the definition of a procedure in programming?

   Hint

   Think of something you can call repeatedly in programming.

2. 2.

   What does the stack do in a CPU?

   Hint

   Remember, it operates on a LIFO principle.

3. 3.

   What is the primary function of the stack in a CPU during procedure calls?

   • To execute instructions
   • To hold temporary data
   • To save context information

   Hint

   Think about what is needed to resume execution.

4. 4.

   True or False: The program counter is reset to zero when a procedure is called.

   • True
   • False

   Hint

   Does it change permanently when calling a procedure?

5. 5.

   Design a multi-layered procedure that calculates the factorial of a number. Explain how you manage the stack and context when recursive calls are made.

   Hint

   Consider how many times the function will call itself.

6. 6.

   Imagine a program has a series of nested procedures. Explain what happens in the stack for a call sequence: Main -> A -> B -> C. Illustrate how context is saved and restored.

   Hint

   Visualize the stack operation as layers being placed and removed.