Question

include using namespace std; int mystery(int x, int y, int z); int main() { cout << mystery(7, 8, 3) << endl; co… # What is the output of the following program? #include using namespace std; int mystery(int x, int y, int z); int main() { cout << mystery(7, 8, 3) << endl; cout << mystery(10, 5, 30) << endl; cout << mystery(9, 12, 11) << endl; cout << mystery(5, 5, 8) << endl; cout << mystery(10, 10, 10) << endl; return 0; } int mystery(int x, int y, int z) { if (x <= y && x <= z) return (y + z - x); else if (y <= z && y <= x) return (z + x - y); else return (x + y - z); }

Short answer

12 35 14 8 10

Step-by-step solution

Understanding the mystery Function

The `mystery` function takes three parameters, `x`, `y`, and `z`. It returns a specific calculation based on comparing these parameters. If `x` is the smallest, it returns `(y + z - x)`; if `y` is the smallest, it returns `(z + x - y)`; if `z` is the smallest, it returns `(x + y - z)`.

Evaluating mystery(7, 8, 3)

Evaluate which of the numbers 7, 8, and 3 is the smallest. Since 3 is the smallest, use the expression where `z` is smallest: \[(x + y - z) = (7 + 8 - 3) = 12\].The first output is 12.

Evaluating mystery(10, 5, 30)

Among 10, 5, and 30, 5 is the smallest. Use the expression where `y` is smallest:\[(z + x - y) = (30 + 10 - 5) = 35\].The second output is 35.

Evaluating mystery(9, 12, 11)

For the input 9, 12, and 11, 9 is the smallest. Use the expression where `x` is smallest:\[(y + z - x) = (12 + 11 - 9) = 14\].The third output is 14.

Evaluating mystery(5, 5, 8)

The numbers 5, 5, and 8 have a tie for the smallest. Since `x` is the first occurring minimum, use:\[(y + z - x) = (5 + 8 - 5) = 8\].The fourth output is 8.

Evaluating mystery(10, 10, 10)

All numbers 10, 10, and 10 are equal, meaning any could be viewed as the smallest due to equality. By convention, use the first condition:\[(y + z - x) = (10 + 10 - 10) = 10\].The fifth output is 10.

Key concepts

Conditional Statements

Conditional statements are the backbone of decision-making in C++. They allow your program to choose different actions depending on various conditions.
In the `mystery` function example, these are implemented using `if`, `else if`, and `else` statements.
These keywords enable the program to streamline its logic flow by checking conditions in order.
The program checks if one value is the smallest among the three input numbers.

• The `if` statement checks if `x` is the smallest. If true, it executes the corresponding expression.
• Then, the `else if` checks whether `y` is the smallest.
• Finally, the `else` statement assumes that `z` is the smallest if other conditions fail.

The order of these conditions is crucial. The code evaluates them sequentially, executing only the first true condition. Hence, a thorough understanding of each condition's logic is vital for the overall function.

Function Parameters

Function parameters are essential parts of C++ functions, allowing for dynamic operations.
In the `mystery` function, three parameters (`x`, `y`, and `z`) are passed along with each function call.
These are placeholders for the actual values provided when calling the function.

• `mystery(7, 8, 3)` passes 7, 8, and 3 to the function respectively.
• Each parameter acquires its value, e.g., `x` becomes 7 for the first call.

This mechanism allows for the reuse of the `mystery` function without altering its code structure.
By altering the parameters, you can manipulate what expressions are executed within the function.
Understanding function parameters will enhance your grasp of function versatility in C++.

Code Evaluation

Code evaluation refers to how a compiler or interpreter processes your code to execute it.
In the given problem, it's about determining what the `mystery` function returns based on varied inputs using conditional logic.
Implement each step structured within the function's logic:

• The compiler evaluates each `if` condition sequentially.
• Upon finding a true condition, it returns the value derived from that specific expression.

Debugging often involves this evaluation process to verify that conditions are correctly set.
In case of ties or unexpected conditions, understanding evaluation order is key to predictably refining your program.
Mastering this ensures you write clear and effective conditional logic that your compiler can process without issues.

Standard Input/Output

Standard input and output (I/O) are fundamental elements in C++ for interacting with users.
The `main` function here utilizes `std::cout` to print results to the console.
Here's how `std::cout` works within this specific example:

• Each `mystery` function call has its result output by `cout`.
• The `<<` operator sends this output stream to the console screen.

The `endl` command is used to ensure each output value appears on a new line.
This is crucial for readability, effectively separating outputs for each function call.
Developing clarity in I/O operations ensures that the user receives information in an understandable format.