A 32-bit-word computer can access ________blank.Multiple Choice2 bytes at a time16 bytes at a time4 bytes at a time8 bytes at a time

Break Down the Problem

1. Identify the context of the problem: The question involves the data access capability of a 32-bit-word computer.
2. Understand what “32-bit-word” means in terms of data access.

Relevant Concepts

1. A “32-bit word” indicates that the computer can process 32 bits of data at a time.
2. We need to convert bits into bytes since the options are listed in bytes.
   • 1 byte = 8 bits

Analysis and Detail

1. Calculate how many bytes correspond to 32 bits: $\text{Number of bytes} = \frac{\text{Number of bits}}{\text{Number of bits per byte}} = \frac{32 \text{ bits}}{8 \text{ bits/byte}} = 4 \text{ bytes}$

Verify and Summarize

1. The result shows that a 32-bit-word computer can access 4 bytes at a time.
2. The choices provided were:
   • 2 bytes at a time
   • 16 bytes at a time
   • 4 bytes at a time
   • 8 bytes at a time

Final Answer

A 32-bit-word computer can access 4 bytes at a time.