Which component is primarily responsible for processing instructions in a computer?

The Central Processing Unit (CPU) is the primary component responsible for processing instructions in a computer. It executes commands from programs and performs calculations and logical operations that are essential for the functioning of computer applications. The CPU interprets and carries out instructions from the operating system and software, making it the brain of the computer.

RAM (Random Access Memory) serves as temporary storage that holds data and instructions that the CPU is currently using, but it does not process instructions itself. The hard drive is a storage device that retains data and programs long-term, while the motherboard is the main circuit board that houses the CPU and other components, facilitating communication between them. However, the actual execution and processing of instructions is solely the domain of the CPU.