Final answer:
Upon computer startup and user login, the operating system's core processes, services, hardware drivers, and user-specific settings and programs are loaded into RAM. RAM is then used to run programs efficiently by providing fast data access.
Step-by-step explanation:
When a computer starts and the login is completed, the RAM (Random Access Memory) is populated with the operating system's (OS) core processes and services required to run the computer. This also includes the initialization of hardware components such as the CPU, GPU, and required drivers. As the user logs in, the OS loads the user's personal settings, starts services specific to the user, and initializes programs that are set to start on login, like antivirus software and other utility applications.
Additionally, applications that are opened after login, either automatically or by the user, are loaded into RAM. This is because RAM provides fast access to data, which is essential for running programs efficiently. However, the specific contents of RAM can vary depending on the user's settings and the programs installed on the computer.