Operating Systems - Process State Machine - Five-State Model
In which scenario is the Process Control Block (PCB) primarily used during the process state transitions in the five-state model?
In which scenario is the Process Control Block (PCB) primarily used during the process state transitions in the five-state model?
easy🔍 Pattern Recognition Q11 of Q15
Step-by-Step Solution
Step 1: Understand the role of PCB during state transitions
The PCB stores the process state, CPU registers, and scheduling information during context switches.Step 2: Analyze each option
A: PCB is created at process creation but its primary use is during context switches, not just at New to Ready.
B: PCB is involved in termination but mainly to release resources; it is not primarily used to delete data.
C: Processes in Ready state do not execute instructions directly; they wait for CPU allocation.
D: Correct. When a process moves from Running to Waiting, the PCB saves CPU registers and state for resumption.Final Answer:
Option D -> Option DQuick Check:
PCB is essential for saving CPU state during Running to Waiting transitions [OK]
Quick Trick: PCB saves CPU state during Running to Waiting transitions [OK]
Common Mistakes:
MISTAKES- Thinking PCB is only used at process creation
- Assuming Ready state processes execute instructions
- Believing PCB is deleted immediately at termination
Trap Explanation:
PITFALL- Options A and B seem plausible because PCB is involved at process creation and termination, but its critical role is saving state during context switches like Running to Waiting. Option C confuses Ready with Running state.
Interviewer Note:
CONTEXT- Tests candidate's understanding of when and why PCB is used during process state transitions.
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