Which brilliant graduate student worked alongside John Mockly on his computer project?

• A. Presper Eckert
• B. Alan Turing
• C. Richard Feynman
• D. Claude Shannon

Answer: (A)

The correct answer is Presper Eckert, who collaborated with John Mauchly in the development of the ENIAC (Electronic Numerical Integrator and Computer). This project was one of the earliest general-purpose digital computers, and Eckert's role as an electrical engineer and programmer was vital in its construction and implementation. His expertise in electronic circuit design coupled with Mauchly's knowledge of computing concepts resulted in significant advancements in computer technology.

While other individuals mentioned, like Alan Turing and Claude Shannon, made foundational contributions to theoretical computer science and information theory, they were not directly involved in the ENIAC project with Mauchly. Richard Feynman, known primarily for his work in physics and quantum mechanics, also did not have a partnership with Mauchly on this specific computer project. Presper Eckert’s collaboration with Mauchly was a key moment in the history of computing, making him the most relevant choice in this context.