An operating system (OS) serves as the core software that manages computer hardware and software resources. It provides fundamental services for computer programs, ensuring that different parts of the computer work together smoothly. One of its most crucial tasks is managing the computer's memory. The question specifically asks about the function responsible for the allocation and de-allocation of memory space to different running programs.

Operating System Functions

Operating systems perform several vital functions to ensure a computer runs efficiently and securely. Let's look at some of these key OS functions:

• Memory management: This function handles the primary memory (RAM) of the computer. It decides which processes get how much memory space and when. It is responsible for keeping track of every memory location, whether it is allocated or free. When a program needs memory, it allocates it, and when the program no longer needs it or terminates, it de-allocates that memory so it can be used by other programs.
• File management: This function is responsible for organizing and managing files and directories on storage devices like hard drives, SSDs, and USB drives. It takes care of creation, deletion, access control, and organization of files and folders.
• Security management: The operating system provides mechanisms to protect system resources and user data from unauthorized access. This includes features like password protection, access control lists, and encryption.
• Device management: This function manages all the hardware devices connected to the computer, such as printers, keyboards, mice, monitors, and network cards. It allocates devices to programs, handles their status, and ensures proper communication between the CPU and these devices.

Memory Management Explained

As highlighted, memory management is the specific function of an operating system that deals with the computer's main memory. When multiple running programs need to share the limited memory space, the memory management unit plays a critical role. Its responsibilities include:

• Keeping track of which parts of memory are currently being used and by whom.
• Deciding which processes to load into memory when space becomes available.
• Allocation of memory to programs when they request it.
• De-allocation of memory when programs finish executing or no longer need the space, making it available for other processes.
• Protecting the memory space of one program from being overwritten by another program.

For example, when you open a web browser, the operating system's memory management component finds an available block of memory and allocates it to the browser program. When you close the browser, the same component de-allocates that memory, marking it as free for other applications.

Core Memory Management Task

The core task described in the question, "allocation and de-allocation of memory space to different running programs," directly corresponds to the functions of memory management. This crucial component ensures that the system uses its physical memory efficiently, prevents conflicts between applications, and allows multiple programs to run concurrently without interfering with each other's data.

Therefore, the function of an operating system that takes care of the allocation and de-allocation of memory space to different running programs is indeed memory management.