What is the role of the motherboard in a computer?

The motherboard plays a crucial role in a computer by acting as the main circuit board that connects all components and facilitates communication between them. It serves as a hub for the CPU (central processing unit), RAM (random access memory), storage devices, and various peripheral devices, enabling them to interact and function cohesively within the system.

In addition to providing physical connections for components, the motherboard contains the chipset that manages data transfer between the CPU, memory, and other peripherals. This integrated design ensures that data flows efficiently across the system, allowing for optimal performance of applications and tasks.

The other roles described in the other choices pertain to different components or functions outside the responsibility of the motherboard. While the CPU indeed executes instructions, that is not the primary function of the motherboard. Similarly, data storage is typically a function of storage devices like hard drives or SSDs, and power conversion is handled by the power supply unit, not the motherboard itself. Thus, the primary and defining function of the motherboard is to connect and allow for communication between all components.