Question

Thread scheduler - What does the thread scheduler mainly use to schedule threads?

1) Priority
2) Time quantum
3) Both Priority and Time quantum
4) None of the above

Answer 1

The thread scheduler mainly uses both priority and time quantum to schedule threads, balancing the need for timely execution of high-priority tasks with ensuring CPU time for lower-priority threads to prevent starvation.

Step-by-step explanation:

The thread scheduler mainly uses both priority and time quantum to schedule threads. The scheduler utilizes a priority system to determine which thread should be run next, with higher-priority threads generally being selected before those of lower priority. However, to ensure that lower-priority threads receive CPU time and avoid starvation, the scheduler also uses a concept called time quantum (or time slice), which is the amount of time a thread is allowed to run before it is preempted by the scheduler.

Threads with the same priority may be scheduled round-robin style, each receiving a time quantum in turn. The combination of priority scheduling and time slicing helps to maintain a balance between responsiveness and efficiency in multitasked environments. Different operating systems may have variations in their scheduling algorithms, but the principle of combining priority with time quantum remains a common approach.