Question: Which characteristics of computer distinguishes it from electronic calculation?

Answer:

While computers are a type of electronic calculating machine, there are several characteristics that distinguish them from earlier forms of electronic calculators. Some of these distinguishing characteristics include:

1. General-purpose computing: Unlike earlier electronic calculators, which were designed to perform specific arithmetic or mathematical functions, computers are designed to perform a wide range of general-purpose computing tasks, including data processing, storage, retrieval, and communication.
2. Programmability: Computers are programmable, which means they can be programmed to perform a wide range of different tasks or operations. This is in contrast to earlier electronic calculators, which were often limited to a fixed set of functions or operations.
3. Flexibility: Computers are highly flexible and can be reprogrammed or reconfigured to perform different tasks or operations. This makes them well-suited for a wide range of different applications, from scientific research to business operations.
4. Storage capacity: Computers have the ability to store and retrieve large amounts of data, which is essential for many applications. This is in contrast to earlier electronic calculators, which typically had very limited storage capacity.
5. Connectivity: Computers are designed to be connected to other computers and devices, enabling communication and data exchange across networks and the internet. This is another key feature that distinguishes them from earlier electronic calculators.

Overall, while computers share some similarities with earlier electronic calculators, their general-purpose computing capabilities, programmability, flexibility, storage capacity, and connectivity make them much more powerful and versatile tools for a wide range of applications.