Since b is not zero, we compute the remainder of 30 and
12, which is 6, and repeat the process using 12 and 6. As before, since b is not zero, we compute the remainder
of 12 and 6 and get zero. We will now repeat the process using 6 and 0. This time through, since b is now zero,
we conclude that the GCD of 42 and 30 is 6.
Algorithms are essential to the way computers process information because a computer program is basically
an electronic form of an algorithm that tells the computer what specific steps to perform to carry out a specified
task. In order to study an electronic form of an algorithm, a computer scientist must also understand the computer
that will be used to execute the steps of the algorithm. The term hardware is used to describe the physical,
tangible parts of a computer. A keyboard, mouse, motherboard, graphics card, and processor are all examples
of computer hardware.
Just as a racecar driver needs to understand the capabilities and limitations of the vehicle they are driving,
a computer scientist must also understand the hardware platform on which computing algorithms will be implemented.
It is not enough just to ???know how to drive??? in the case of the racecar driver, and it is not enough just
to ???know algorithms??? to be a computer scientist.
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