What does CPU stand for?

The term CPU stands for Central Processing Unit. This is the primary component of a computer that performs most of the processing inside a computer. It interprets and executes instructions from computer programs, essentially acting as the brain of the computer. The CPU carries out basic arithmetic, logic, control, and input/output operations specified by the instructions within a program. Understanding this terminology is fundamental in the field of computer science and helps in grasping how computers function on a hardware level.

The other options either misname the CPU or introduce terms that do not refer to its primary function or designation in computing systems. For example, the terms "Central Performance Unit," "Core Processing Unit," and "Computer Processing Unit" are not recognized standard terminology in the context of computer architecture, making them inaccurate representations of what a CPU stands for.