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Multiprocessing for Dummies

noun

pronunciation: ,məltɪ'proʊsɛsiŋ

What does Multiprocessing really mean?

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Multiprocessing is a really cool and powerful concept that allows a computer to do more than one task at the same time. Imagine you have a delicious cake to bake, but you also have a pile of laundry to do. Instead of just focusing on one thing at a time, multiprocessing lets you bake the cake in the oven while the washing machine is running.

In the world of computers, when we talk about multiprocessing, we mean that the computer can work on multiple tasks simultaneously. It's like having a super-fast brain that can think about and work on different things all at once.

Let's take a closer look at how multiprocessing works. Normally, a computer works on tasks one after the other. It's like a chef cooking in the kitchen, where they have to finish preparing one dish before moving on to the next. But with multiprocessing, it's like having several chefs in the kitchen, each working on a different dish at the same time. This can save a lot of time and make the whole cooking process much faster.

So, when we say a computer is multiprocessing, we mean it has the ability to handle multiple tasks simultaneously. It can divide its attention and resources to work on different tasks at the same time. It's like having a superpower that allows the computer to be more efficient and get things done faster.

Now, there are actually two different definitions of multiprocessing that we should talk about. The first one is called symmetric multiprocessing. This is when a computer has multiple processors (also known as CPUs) that all work together to process different tasks. It's like having a team of chefs in the kitchen, each with their own expertise, working together to create a delicious meal.

The second definition is called asymmetric multiprocessing. This is when a computer has different processors with different roles and responsibilities. It's like having a head chef who oversees the entire cooking process, while the other chefs focus on their specific tasks. This type of multiprocessing is often used in systems where certain tasks require more power or control than others.

So, to sum it all up, multiprocessing means that a computer has the ability to work on multiple tasks at the same time, just like having multiple chefs in a kitchen. It can be either symmetric, where all the processors work together as a team, or asymmetric, where different processors have different roles. Either way, multiprocessing allows the computer to be more efficient and get things done faster.

Revised and Fact checked by Michael Rodriguez on 2023-10-28 12:13:31

Multiprocessing In a sentece

Learn how to use Multiprocessing inside a sentece

  • When you bake a cake, you can have multiple tasks happening at the same time. For example, while the cake is baking in the oven, you can also be preparing the frosting and washing the dishes. This is like multiprocessing because you are doing multiple things simultaneously.
  • Imagine you have a big puzzle with many pieces to put together. Instead of working on it alone, you can ask your friends to help you. Each friend can work on a different section of the puzzle at the same time. This is similar to multiprocessing because everyone is working on the puzzle together to finish it faster.
  • Let's say you are playing a video game that requires you to control multiple characters at once. For instance, you might be controlling a main character while also giving commands to some computer-controlled companions. This is similar to multiprocessing because you are simultaneously performing multiple tasks in the game.
  • Imagine you are making a group project for school. Each member of the group can work on a different part of the project at the same time. One person can gather information, another can create the slides, and someone else can proofread the content. This is an example of multiprocessing because each person is doing their own task to complete the project together.
  • Let's say you have a big pile of laundry to fold. Instead of folding one item at a time, you can ask your family members to help you. Each person can take a portion of the pile and fold their own clothes. This is similar to multiprocessing because everyone is working together to finish folding the clothes faster.

Multiprocessing Synonyms

Words that can be interchanged for the original word in the same context.

Multiprocessing Hypernyms

Words that are more generic than the original word.