What is kernel_task and why is it using so much RAM

[TheJing]

I just noticed that Kernel_task is using 270mb of my RAM.

What is it and why is it using so much RAM?

 

[mobilehavoc]

I just noticed that Kernel_task is using 270mb of my RAM.

What is it and why is it using so much RAM?

That's the heart of your OS - that's not bad for basically what runs your computer.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kernel_(computing)