What is the motherboard in a computer?

The motherboard is indeed the main circuit board in a computer, serving as the backbone to which all other components are connected. It houses the CPU, memory (RAM), and provides connectors for additional components such as storage devices and graphics cards. The motherboard enables communication between all the hardware components by allowing data to flow between them through a series of buses and pathways. It also includes essential features such as power distribution and circuitry required for the operation of the computer.

The other options relate to different aspects of a computer system: software refers to the programs and operating systems that run on the hardware; the power supply unit converts electrical power from an outlet into usable power for the computer; and storage devices, such as hard drives or SSDs, are used to store data. Each of these components has a distinct role, but none serve the central coordinating function of the motherboard.