What is the basic function of a computer mouse VDU A) Displays video B) Prints documents C) Selects menu commands D) Performs basic computation
What is the basic function of a computer mouse VDU A) Displays video B) Prints documents C) Selects menu commands D) Performs basic computation
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
Correct Answer: C) Selects menu commands
Explanation:
A computer mouse is a pointing input device used to interact with a graphical user interface (GUI) on a computer. Its primary function is to move a cursor on the screen and allow users to select, open, drag, or interact with objects and commands displayed by the system. When used in conjunction with a Visual Display Unit (VDU)—which is the screen or monitor that shows the graphical output—the mouse enables users to navigate and manipulate the interface efficiently.
The basic and most common function of a computer mouse is to select menu commands. For instance, when you open a software application, various menus and icons are displayed. The mouse allows you to hover over these items and click to choose commands such as “Open,” “Save,” “Print,” or “Exit.” This makes it an essential tool for executing commands without needing to use the keyboard exclusively.
Let’s break down why the other options are incorrect:
- A) Displays video: This is the function of the VDU (Visual Display Unit), not the mouse. The VDU renders text, images, and video for the user to view.
- B) Prints documents: Printing is managed by a printer, and while the mouse may be used to click the “Print” command, the act of printing itself is not a function of the mouse.
- D) Performs basic computation: Computation is handled by the CPU (Central Processing Unit), not the mouse. The mouse does not perform any arithmetic or logical operations.
In summary, the mouse works in tandem with the VDU by allowing users to interact visually and manually with the computer’s software. Its fundamental role is selecting and activating commands, making option C) Selects menu commands the correct answer.
