Kernel_task using up over 100% CPU!

I have a Macbook Pro 10.6.8, and in the last few days, it has started running dramatically different. If I try to do anything beyond basic browser surfing (one tab open at a time), the entire computer will freeze for a few minutes. As well, it has started to take at least ten minutes to fully load when turning on, and this was never an issue before.
I have 116GB of free space on my computer, and I am always very aware of not having too many programs running at a time.
How do I solve this issue and find out why my kernel_task in the Activity Moniter is taking up 100-105% of my cpu!
Thank you.

Hey! I just read someone's suggestion to reset my NVRAM & PRAM and it worked! My Kernel task went from 110% CPU to 10% ! ! !
http://support.apple.com/kb/ht1379?viewlocale=en_US
Thanks!

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Kernel_task using up over 100% CPU!

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