The single-cycle datapath conceptually described in this section must have separate instruction and data memories, because:. a. the formats of data and instructions are diff erent in MIPS, and hence different memories are needed. b. having separate memories is less expensive. c. the processor operates in one cycle and cannot use a single-ported memory for two different accesses within that cycled. the formats of data and instructions are different in MIPS, and hence different R-type instructions are needed .

C. The processor operates in one cycle and cannot use a single-ported memory for two different accesses within that cycle

Explanation:

Processors require instructions and data which are retrieved from data memories for processing, but it cannot access two or receive two both processes as only a port is used for accessing data and another for receiving instructions. In fact, a single-cycle or single-clock processor cannot use a resource more than once.

i guess the correct option is letter a.

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