Question

A student was asked to translate the following algorithmic operation into machine language, where \(x\) and \(y\) were stored in locations 500 and 501 , respectively: Set \(x\) to the value of \(y+19\) Here is what was produced: LOAD 501 ADD 19 STORE 500 Is this translation correct? If not, describe the error and explain how to correct it.

Short answer

The translation is correct; it sets \( x \) to \( y + 19 \) as instructed.

Step-by-step solution

Understanding the Operation

The operation asks to set the value of variable \( x \) to \( y + 19 \), where \( y \) is stored at location 501 and the result should be stored in location 500 (where \( x \) is stored).

Analyzing the Given Translation

The given translation is: LOAD 501, ADD 19, STORE 500. This process implies loading the value from location 501 (which is \( y \)), adding 19 to it, and then storing the result back in location 500.

Verifying the Translation

We check if each step matches the operation described:- `LOAD 501` loads the value of \( y \) (stored at location 501) into a register. This is correct.- `ADD 19` adds 19 to the value currently in the register. This correctly computes \( y + 19 \).- `STORE 500` stores the result from the register into location 500, which is supposed to hold \( x \).Every step in the translation aligns perfectly with the operation requirement.

Conclusion

The given translation correctly implements the operation, which sets \( x \) to \( y + 19 \) by altering the contents of memory locations as required.

Key concepts

Algorithmic Operation

Algorithmic operations are the foundation of programming. They describe a sequence of steps or actions put together to solve a problem or perform a task. In this exercise, the operation is to set the value of variable \( x \) to be equal to the sum of \( y \) and 19.
This is a simple mathematical operation, making use of basic arithmetic. Understanding algorithmic operations is crucial. It forms the backbone of translating logic into executable code.

• Start with clear problem definition.
• Identify all inputs and expected outputs.
• Break down the task into smaller, manageable steps.

Once you have your sequence, translating them into a language the computer understands becomes easier. Always aim to be clear and precise, as computers need explicit instructions.

Memory Locations

Memory locations are specific addresses in the computer's memory where data is stored. Each location holds a unique piece of information or data and can be identified by its address. In the context of this exercise, memory locations 500 and 501 are used to store the values of \( x \) and \( y \) respectively.
Understanding memory is fundamental in programming because it allows proper data management, retrieval, and storage, which affects the efficiency of an algorithm. Remember that:

• Data is stored at specific addresses.
• Memory management involves assigning and efficiently using these addresses.
• Careful allocation and freeing of memory maintain system performance.

Each operation in machine language typically involves interactions with memory, making a grasp of these concepts essential for writing effective code.

Instruction Set

An instruction set is the language through which a computer's CPU understands and performs operations. It consists of all possible commands that can be used in machine language to direct the CPU what to do. In this exercise, the instructions used are `LOAD`, `ADD`, and `STORE`.
Each instruction tells the CPU to perform a very specific action, managing how data is processed in the computer's hardware. Here’s how it works:

• `LOAD` retrieves a value from a memory location.
• `ADD` performs mathematical addition with a number or another memory value.
• `STORE` saves a result back into a specified memory address.

Mastering the instruction set allows you to efficiently translate algorithmic operations into machine language, catering directly to the CPU's understanding.

Programming Translation

Programming translation is the process of converting high-level algorithms into machine-readable instructions. This is crucial as computers operate in machine language, not human languages. The translation exercise provided exemplifies this transformation from algorithmic operation to machine code.
The steps for successful translation include:

• Understanding the problem description and expected outcomes.
• Using an instruction set to create a step-by-step machine instruction sequence.
• Ensuring the sequence aligns with computer architecture requirements.

It's essential to verify the accuracy of translations because even small errors can lead to significant issues in program execution. In our exercise, the translation was successful, demonstrating an accurate conversion of a high-level operation into machine instructions.