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Rom facts for kids

Kids Encyclopedia Facts

Rom or ROM can mean different things, depending on how it's used. It's a short word that stands for many ideas, from computer parts to people and places. This article will help you understand the most common meanings of "Rom" and "ROM."

What is ROM in Computers?

ROM stands for Read-Only Memory. It's a special type of computer storage that holds information permanently. Unlike other memory that can be changed, ROM usually keeps its data even when the computer is turned off. This makes it perfect for storing important instructions that a computer needs to start up.

How Does Read-Only Memory Work?

Imagine a book where the words are printed on the pages and can't be erased or rewritten. That's a bit like ROM. The information is "burned" onto the chip during manufacturing. This means the data is always there and ready to be read by the computer.

Types of ROM in Devices

  • Android ROM: This is a file that contains all the instructions for an Android operating system. It's like the brain of your Android phone or tablet, telling it how to work.
  • ROM Cartridge: These are small, portable devices that hold ROM chips. You might remember them from old video game consoles like the Nintendo 64 or Game Boy. They stored the game's data.
  • ROM Image: This is a computer file that is an exact copy of the data from a ROM chip. People often use ROM images to play old video games on emulators, which are programs that act like old game consoles.

What is ROM in Medicine?

In medicine, ROM often refers to how much a body part can move.

Understanding Range of Motion

  • Range of Motion: This describes how far a joint, like your knee or elbow, can bend and straighten. Doctors and physical therapists measure range of motion to see if your joints are healthy or if you need exercises to improve their movement. For example, if you hurt your arm, a therapist might help you increase its range of motion.

Other Medical Uses of ROM

  • Risk of Mortality: This is a way doctors estimate how likely a patient is to pass away. It helps them understand how serious a patient's condition is.
  • Rupture of Membranes: This term is used during pregnancy. It describes when the sac of fluid around a baby breaks, often called "water breaking."

What is Rom in Society?

"Rom" can also refer to a group of people and their culture.

The Romani People

  • Romani People: The word "Rom" is often used to describe a group of people known as the Romani. They are an ethnic group with a rich history and culture, originating from Northern India. They have lived in many parts of the world for centuries.
  • Romani Language: The Romani people speak their own language, also called Romani. It has different dialects, but it's a unique language with its own grammar and vocabulary.

Rom in Entertainment and Fiction

The word "Rom" also appears in many stories, movies, and games.

Characters and Games

  • Rom (Comics): This is a superhero character from Marvel Comics. He was originally a toy created by Parker Brothers.
  • Rom (Star Trek): A character from the TV show Star Trek: Deep Space Nine. He is a Ferengi, an alien species known for their focus on business and profit.
  • Rom (Video Games): You might find characters named Rom in video games, like a boss in the game Bloodborne.
  • Runes of Magic: This is a popular online role-playing game where many players can play together in a fantasy world.

Places Named Rom

There are several places around the world that have "Rom" in their name.

Rivers and Villages

  • River Rom: A river located in England.
  • Rom (River): Another river that flows through parts of Switzerland and Italy.
  • Rom, Afghanistan, Rom, France, Rom, Germany, Rom, Iran: These are names of villages or towns in different countries.

Other Notable Places

  • Royal Ontario Museum: Often called the ROM, this is a very large museum in Toronto, Canada. It has amazing collections of art, culture, and natural history from all over the world.
  • The Rom: A famous skatepark located in East London, England, popular with skateboarders and BMX riders.
  • Romania: Sometimes, "ROM" is used as a short code for the country Romania.


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