A floating-point unit (FPU) is a specialized part of a computer's processor designed to perform arithmetic operations on floating-point numbers. These numbers can represent a wide range of values, including very small and very large numbers, which makes them essential for scientific calculations, graphics, and complex simulations. The FPU allows for efficient processing of these calculations, improving overall performance. In modern processors, the FPU works alongside the central processing unit (CPU) to handle tasks that require high precision and speed. By offloading floating-point calculations to the FPU, the CPU can focus on other tasks, enhancing the system's efficiency. This division of labor is crucial in applications like machine learning, 3D rendering, and financial modeling.