What occurs when a CPU overheats during operation?

When a CPU overheats during operation, the system may shut down unexpectedly as a protective measure to prevent damage to the hardware. Modern CPUs are designed with safety features that monitor temperature levels. If the temperature exceeds a certain threshold, the CPU will initiate a shutdown process. This is to avoid potentially catastrophic damage that can occur if the CPU continues to operate at elevated temperatures, which could lead to physical component failures or data loss.

In contrast, other options do not accurately represent the consequences of CPU overheating. While there might be moments of performance fluctuations, these are typically not sustainable and do not contribute to the overall efficiency of the computer. An unexpected shutdown is a direct response to thermal issues, indicating that protecting the integrity of components is prioritized over continued operation.