Can you explain the difference between a GPU and a CPU and how they work together in a computer graphics pipeline?

A CPU (Central Processing Unit) and a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit) are both types of processors, but they have different architectures and functions, which make them suited for different tasks.

CPU (Central Processing Unit) :

* General-purpose processor designed to handle a wide range of tasks, including executing instructions, performing calculations, managing memory, and coordinating input/output operations.
* Typically consists of a few powerful cores optimized for sequential processing tasks, such as running applications, operating system functions, and executing program instructions.
* Emphasizes low-latency processing and is well-suited for tasks that require complex decision-making, branching logic, and serial execution.
* Used in a variety of computing tasks, including running software applications, managing system resources, and handling multitasking operations.


GPU (Graphics Processing Unit) :

* Specialized processor designed specifically for handling graphics and parallel processing tasks, such as rendering images, processing video, and performing complex mathematical calculations.
* Consists of thousands of smaller cores optimized for parallel processing, allowing it to perform many calculations simultaneously.
* Emphasizes high-throughput processing and is well-suited for tasks that require massive parallelism, such as rendering 3D graphics, simulating physics, and executing machine learning algorithms.
* Used primarily in graphics-intensive applications, including video games, multimedia content creation, scientific simulations, and artificial intelligence.