Difficulty: Medium
Correct Answer: virtual memory is used only in multi-user systems
Explanation:
Introduction / Context:Operating systems use paging, segmentation, and virtual memory to manage limited physical RAM. Recognizing which statements are valid helps clarify performance trade-offs and design choices in OS memory subsystems.
Given Data / Assumptions:
Concept / Approach:Segmentation experiences external fragmentation because variable-sized segments leave gaps between allocations. Paging can have internal fragmentation because the last page of a process may be partially unused. Virtual memory is not limited to multi-user systems; it is common in single-user desktops and mobile devices. Systems can combine segmentation and paging (e.g., segmented virtual memory paged to frames).
Step-by-Step Solution:
Evaluate each statement against OS theory.Confirm B (true): segmentation → external fragmentation.Confirm C (true): paging → internal fragmentation within pages.Confirm D (true): some designs page segmented spaces.Identify A as false: virtual memory also exists in single-user systems, so “only in multi-user” is incorrect.Verification / Alternative check:Consumer OSes (Windows, macOS, Linux) use virtual memory regardless of single vs. multi-user usage.
Why Other Options Are Wrong:Options B, C, and D are standard textbook truths; marking them false contradicts established OS behavior.
Common Pitfalls:Assuming “multi-user” implies the necessity for virtual memory; in reality, it addresses address-space abstraction and overcommit independent of user count.
Final Answer:virtual memory is used only in multi-user systems
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