Distinguish between primary storage and secondary storage?

Primary storage, also known as main memory or internal memory, refers to the storage space in a computer that is directly accessible to the processor. Primary storage is typically used to store data and instructions that are currently being used or processed by the computer.

Secondary storage, also known as external memory, refers to storage space that is not directly accessible to the processor, but is used to store data and instructions for longer periods of time. Secondary storage is typically used to store data that is not currently being used, but that needs to be kept for future reference.

There are several key differences between primary storage and secondary storage:

Speed: Primary storage is generally faster than secondary storage, as it is directly accessible to the processor. This means that the processor can access and retrieve data from primary storage more quickly than it can from secondary storage.

Capacity: Primary storage is typically smaller in capacity than secondary storage. This is because primary storage is used to store data that is currently being used or processed, while secondary storage is used to store data that is not currently being used.

Cost: Primary storage is typically more expensive than secondary storage, as it requires faster and more expensive memory chips.

Volatility: Primary storage is generally volatile, meaning that it is lost when the power is turned off. In contrast, secondary storage is non-volatile, meaning that it retains data even when the power is turned off.

Location: Primary storage is located inside the computer, while secondary storage is typically external to the computer and is connected to the computer through a port or interface.