Why, when describing old PCs, is the amount of RAM indicated in words and not bytes?

Question

Computers

Can anyone tell me, in books when they write about old systems, the amount of memory is indicated in "words" and not one says what it means, can someone decipher it, they usually write something like "the amount of memory was 2000 words by 20 bytes", how is this different from 40_000 bytes?

Answer 1

2000 cells, each with 20
is not the same as 200 by 200 or 20 by 2000,
although the volume in bytes will be the same.
is it clear now?

Answer 2

As a rule, a machine word is a sort of indivisible entity of the processor/memory level. With regard to a specific computer of those times (when the actual byte was not at all and not 8 bits (c) Knuth), it was quite logical to operate with these entities. Well, as with booze - a beer mug, a pint - not exactly one liter at all)

Answer 3

This made it easier for everyone.

Answer 4

For example, current systems are distinguished by 32 and 64 bits, respectively, the machine word is equal to the bitness of the system 32 bits and 64 bits
Ps there were other multiples of 2 to the power of x

Answer 5

Marketing.
So we have 2 GB of RAM. Sounds Powerful!
And now we look where this memory is worth.
If I have Win 7 - 32, then this is one thing
. And let's say on Win 10 - 64 it will be EXACTLY 2 times less.
That is why by putting a 32-bit OS on an old computer, we will get a quite smart system unit.
And that's why increasing the size of the RAM is so good for the overall performance of the system in the form of an inexpensive and effective upgrade.