Computer question from Laboratory Attendant exam, 2026 by JKSSB
Which of the following statements is NOT true about virtual memory in an operating system?
Last updated Jun 19, 2026
Correct Answer:
Option C —
It permanently stores running processes in secondary storage
Why this statement is NOT true:
Virtual memory is a temporary memory management technique. When a process is running, its data is swapped back and forth between the high-speed RAM and a temporary space on the hard drive (secondary storage) called a pagefile or swap file.
Once the process is closed or the computer is turned off, that data is cleared from the virtual memory space. It is never permanently stored there.
Why the other options are true:
A is TRUE: The primary purpose of virtual memory is to let you run large applications (or many apps at once) that exceed the physical capacity of your RAM sticks.
B is TRUE: Virtual memory achieves its trick by carving out a portion of your hard drive or SSD (disk space) and treating it as an extension of your main memory (RAM).
D is TRUE: This describes a process called demand paging. Instead of loading a massive 10 GB program into RAM all at once, the operating system only loads the specific pieces (pages) of the program you are actively using right now.
Answer verified by Quintessence Classes faculty — Karan Nagar, Srinagar.
