RAM is also called read/write memory. When the CPU needs information from RAM it can "read" that information from it. The CPU can also "write" or store new or processed information in RAM. The CPU, therefore, can read and write to RAM

RAM is volatile. That is, it is a temporary storage place for all the data and software your PC needs to work with. When you turn your PC off, RAM is wiped clean and forgets everything that was in it. The reason for this is RAM needs electricity running through it at all times to remember things.