COMPUTER FUNDAMENTALS

Detailed explanation-1: -Primary storage is faster, more expensive, and persistent. Secondary memory devices are less expensive, slower when compared to primary memory devices. The memory devices used for primary memory are semiconductor memories. The secondary memory devices are magnetic and optical memories.

Detailed explanation-2: -Hence the correct order of the computer storage devices in order of speed of data retrieval from fastest to slowest is as follows: main memory, hard disk, and CD-ROM.

Detailed explanation-3: -Primary memory is faster compares to secondary memory.

Detailed explanation-4: -As programs and applications are stored in main memory, primary storage provides fast and efficient access to the CPU. On the contrary, secondary storage is more of a long-term storage solution with substantial data storage capacity which makes them relatively slower than their primary counterparts.