Question

which three means of performing calculations existed before the arrival of the modern computer?

a. scientific calculator

b. step reckoner

c. mathematical table

d. abacus

Explanation:

• Scientific calculators are modern electronic devices, post-dating early computers, so they are excluded.
• Step reckoner is an early mechanical calculator predating modern computers.
• Mathematical tables (precomputed reference tables) were used for calculations before modern computers.
• Abacus is an ancient manual calculating tool that existed long before modern computers.

Answer:

B. Step reckoner
C. Mathematical table
D. Abacus