RAM is a form of volatile memory that is used to store data and machine code currently being used. It allows data to be read or written quickly regardless of its physical location. The two main types are SRAM and DRAM. ROM is a form of non-volatile memory that can only be modified slowly or with difficulty. It retains its data even when power is turned off. The main types are PROM, EPROM, and EEPROM. The key differences between RAM and ROM are that RAM is volatile and loses its data when power is lost, while ROM is non-volatile and retains data without power; RAM is used for normal computer operations after startup while ROM is used in the startup process