: "I need 20.5 bytes of memory for this task, so I'll just ask for 21. But
: now I've got 4 bits of space to fiddle with. I think I'll use them to
: contemplate my existence." Or something along those lines. It starts
: with 4 bits, but it adds up with each new task.
Memory really may not be the correct term, since all that does is store something. Processing time or power or whatever the correct term for that is... the point is the processor is what "does" things in a computer. Memory just keeps track of what it does. There are quite a few programs that you can install that will simply use the "idle" processing power on your computer to do things like mathematical equations, encryption cracking, searching the stars for intelligent life...
An analogy is a worker who can do a job in 20 hours but asks for 24 and spends the extra 4 hours writing a book.
Memory would still be needed, but the valuable resource would be processing power. At least, that is how I remember it. I could be completely wrong, please correct me if I am.