Final answer:
The cache in a CPU is used to increase data access speeds by storing copies of frequently used data and instructions, significantly improving computer performance and efficiency.
Step-by-step explanation:
The primary purpose for the cache in a central processing unit (CPU) is to speed up the access to data and instructions that the CPU needs to perform tasks. The cache acts as a high-speed memory area that stores copies of commonly used data and instructions from the main memory (RAM). Because the CPU can access data from the cache much faster than from RAM, this significantly improves the efficiency and performance of the computer. The concept of a microprocessor, which is an integrated circuit that implements a computer processor, has greatly enabled digital computers to efficiently process large amounts of information. By integrating the microprocessor with cache memory, modern computers can handle complex tasks at great speeds, making them capable of a wide variety of useful functions.