Digital Logic
Word
The natural data unit for a processor, typically 32 or 64 bits, defining register and bus width.
Detailed Explanation
Word size affects processor capabilities—32-bit words address 4GB memory; 64-bit addresses effectively unlimited memory. Instructions, registers, and data paths match word size. Sub-word operations (byte, halfword) require additional handling.
Memory may transfer words, double-words, or cache lines. Word alignment (addresses divisible by word size in bytes) simplifies hardware; misaligned access may require multiple bus transactions or be unsupported.