Read the following definitions and come up with your definition.

1. The central processing unit (CPU) of a computer is a piece of hardware that carries out the instructions of a computer program. It performs the basic arithmetical, logical operations and coordinates input, output and storage operations of a computer system.

2. CPU (pronounced as separate letters) is the abbreviation for central processing unit. Sometimes referred to simply as the central processor, but more commonly called processor, the CPU is the brains of the computer where most calculations take place. In terms of computing power, the CPU is the most important element of a computer.

3. The central computational and control unit of a computer system, the CPU controls the interpretation and execution of instructions.The CPU contains the arithmetic logic unit (ALU), which performs mathematical calculations, and the control unit, which retrieves instructions from memory, accepts calculations from the ALU, and executes the instructions. The CPU often is contained on a single silicon chip, known as a microprocessor. CPU commonly is interchangeable with microprocessor and processor.