A. Decode, fetch, execute.
B. Execute, decode, fetch.
C. Fetch, execute, decode.
D. Fetch, decode, execute.

Solution

D. Fetch, decode, execute.

Explanation

The three sequential functions of CPU (Central Processing Unit) operations are typically referred to as the fetch-decode-execute cycle:

Fetch: The CPU retrieves instructions from memory, typically from RAM (Random Access Memory). The instruction to be executed is fetched from the memory location specified by the program counter (PC), which keeps track of the address of the next instruction to be executed.

Decode: The fetched instruction is decoded to determine what operation needs to be performed and what data it needs. The CPU translates the instruction into a series of signals that control the other components of the CPU to execute the instruction.

Execute: The CPU carries out the operation specified by the decoded instruction. This may involve performing arithmetic or logical operations, accessing data from memory, or transferring data between different parts of the CPU or between the CPU and other components of the computer system. After execution, the PC is updated to point to the next instruction in memory, and the cycle repeats.