Multi-core architectures refer to computer systems that have multiple processing units, or "cores," on a single chip. Each core can independently execute tasks, allowing for better performance and efficiency compared to single-core processors. This design enables computers to handle multiple applications or processes simultaneously, improving overall speed and responsiveness. These architectures are commonly found in modern devices, including smartphones, laptops, and servers. By distributing workloads across several cores, multi-core systems can perform complex calculations and run demanding software more effectively, making them essential for tasks like gaming, video editing, and data analysis.