This question asks us to evaluate two statements regarding fundamental concepts in computer science and programming, determining whether each statement is true or false.

Operating System: Essential for Computer Functionality

Let's carefully examine the first statement provided:

• Statement I: Every computer must have an operating system to run other programs.

An operating system (OS) is system software that manages computer hardware and software resources and provides common services for computer programs. It acts as an intermediary between the computer hardware and application programs. Without an operating system, a computer would be a collection of inert hardware components. The OS is responsible for:

• Managing memory and processes.
• Controlling input/output devices (like keyboards, mice, printers).
• Managing files and folders on storage devices.
• Providing a user interface.

Crucially, an operating system creates the environment necessary for application programs (like web browsers, word processors, games, or any user-installed software) to function. Without this foundational software, other programs cannot be loaded into memory or executed by the central processing unit (CPU). Therefore, it is indeed a fundamental requirement for a computer to have an operating system to run any other software.

Based on this essential role, Statement I is True.

Compiler and Assembler: Understanding Code Translation

Now, let's analyze the second statement:

• Statement II: The compiler or assembler converts the object code into source code.

To evaluate this statement, we need to understand the direction of translation performed by a compiler and an assembler:

• Source Code: This is the code written by human programmers in a high-level programming language (e.g., C++, Java, Python) or in assembly language. It is designed to be readable and understandable by humans.
• Object Code (or Machine Code): This is the low-level, binary code that a computer's processor can directly understand and execute. It is typically not human-readable.

The primary function of a compiler is to translate source code written in a high-level language into object code. This conversion is necessary because computers can only execute machine code directly. For example, when you compile a C++ program, the compiler takes your .cpp source files and generates an executable .exe file (which contains object code).

Similarly, an assembler translates assembly language (which is a symbolic representation of machine code, making it slightly more human-readable than raw binary) into executable object code. It also translates source code to object code.

The process of converting object code back into source code is known as decompilation. While decompilers exist, they are distinct from compilers and assemblers, and the output they produce is often not the original, identical source code but rather a functionally equivalent, sometimes less optimized or harder-to-read, version. Compilers and assemblers work in the opposite direction — from source to object code.

Based on their defined roles, Statement II is False.

Computer System Statements: Final Evaluation

To summarize our analysis of the given statements:

• Statement I: Every computer must have an operating system to run other programs. — True
• Statement II: The compiler or assembler converts the object code into source code. — False

Therefore, the correct combination reflecting the truthfulness of these statements is I - True, II - False.