A few years ago, Google made it possible to add Linux support to Chrome OS. By doing this, anyone could install Linux apps on their Chromebook and take advantage of the powerful Linux command-line interface. . For any Chromebook user who’d like to be able to run more standard applications, this is a great way to expand Chrome OS.
Link: How to enable Linux on your Chromebook (and why you should)
via http://www.zdnet.com