Final answer:
The operating system on handheld computers and mobile devices such as smartphones typically resides on a ROM chip, which is essential for storing the OS's permanent data and ensuring the device functions properly upon boot up.
Step-by-step explanation:
ROM is an acronym for Read-Only Memory. It refers to computer memory chips containing permanent or semi-permanent data. Unlike RAM, ROM is non-volatile; even after you turn off your computer, the contents of ROM will remain. ROM stands for read-only memory. It's used to store the start-up instructions for a computer, also known as the firmware.
Most modern computers use flash-based ROM. It is part of the BIOS chip, which is located on the motherboard.On handheld computers and many mobile devices such as smartphones, the OS may reside on a ROM chip. This is because the Read-Only Memory (ROM) is non-volatile storage that retains data even when the device is turned off, which is essential for storing the operating system's permanent data.
Unlike RAM, which is volatile and loses its data when the power is off, ROM ensures that the device can boot up and operate correctly each time it is turned on. The CPU executes software, and RAM temporarily holds data and programs that are currently in use, whereas the GPU processes graphics. Thus, for storage of the operating system, ROM is the correct answer, which is option 3.