Which of the following is a common digital storage element?

• A. CPU
• B. ALU
• C. RAM
• D. Clock

Answer: (C)

Digital storage element refers to a component that can hold binary data for later use. RAM, or Random Access Memory, is the main form of fast, temporary storage in computers. It stores data and instructions the CPU needs while programs are running, allowing quick read and write access. This makes RAM a storage element designed to hold digital information during operation. In contrast, the central processing unit is the brain that executes instructions; the arithmetic logic unit is a part of the CPU that performs calculations; the clock provides timing signals to synchronize operations but does not itself store data. Therefore, RAM best fits the description of a common digital storage element.