Root What is a kernal compared to a ROM

[zackman2091]

So i rooted my phone about 2 or 3 weeks ago and then after a day of having the stock ROM i flashed fresh 3.3.0.1 or what ever it is and i have always read up on rooting and stuff but i have no idea what a kernal is compared to a ROM and should i change the kernal i am running because all i have done is flash the ROM nothing else

 

[goodboy]

A kernel is the first layer of programming right above hardware. It tells the hardware how to function basically. Where as a ROM is the OS layer; It's like the wrapping paper for a gift. You don't have to flash the kernel, but flashing a kernel could improve battery life and performance on your phone as opposed to the stock kernel.