What does the motherboard do in a computer?

The motherboard plays a crucial role in a computer by connecting all the physical components, such as the CPU, RAM, storage devices, and peripheral devices. It serves as the main circuit board that facilitates communication between these components, allowing them to work together effectively. This interconnected design is vital for a computer's functionality, as it ensures that data can be shared and processed among various hardware elements.

While other options might reference important functions of a computer, they do not accurately describe the primary role of the motherboard. For example, temporary storage for active processes refers to RAM, and long-term storage pertains to hard drives or SSDs. Additionally, software applications running depend on the CPU and memory but aren't intrinsically tied to the motherboard's function of connectivity. The motherboard is essentially the backbone of the computer, enabling all other components to interact and operate harmoniously.