The correct answer is A. CPU.
A CPU, or central processing unit, is the main processing unit of a computer. It is responsible for carrying out the instructions of a computer program. CPUs are typically the fastest components in a computer, and they are responsible for carrying out the most important tasks.
Magnetic tapes and disks are storage devices. They are used to store data, but they are not as fast as CPUs. Video terminals are used to display information, but they are not as fast as CPUs. Sensors and mechanical controllers are used to control devices, but they are not as fast as CPUs.
Therefore, the fastest component in a computer is the CPU.