A conditional branch instruction executes only when the zero flag is set. Which information must the control unit use to determine whether to take the branch?

Options

  • A. The zero flag and the branch condition
  • B. Only the current data stored in the cache
  • C. Only the physical capacity of RAM
  • D. More than one of the above
  • E. None of the above

Correct Answer (Detailed Explanation is Below)

A. The zero flag and the branch condition

Detailed Explanation

Correct Answer: The zero flag and the branch condition.

Explanation: The control unit evaluates the branch condition using status flags produced by previous operations. If the zero flag satisfies the condition, control logic selects the branch target as the next instruction address. Otherwise, execution continues along the sequential path.