Question

T \(\quad\) F \(\quad\) Function prototypes are terminated with a semicolon.

Short answer

Answer: True (T)

Step-by-step solution

Understanding Function Prototypes

Function prototypes, also known as function declarations, are used in various programming languages like C and C++. They provide the basic information about the function, such as its name, return type, and expected arguments, allowing the compiler to understand the structure of the function without having the actual function definition at that point in the code. This is useful, especially when working with multiple files and functions that call each other.

Correct Way to Write Function Prototypes

A function prototype is usually written before the actual function definition, and is composed of the return type, the function name, and the arguments list, all enclosed in parentheses. It should be noted that the argument types should be specified, but not the variable names. For example, in C and C++ programming languages, a function prototype would look like this: ```cpp return_type function_name(argument_type1, argument_type2, ...); ``` Notice how there is a semicolon at the end of the function prototype.

Verifying if Function Prototypes are Terminated with a Semicolon

Based on the correct syntax and examples provided, we can see that function prototypes are indeed terminated with a semicolon in programming languages like C and C++. This helps the compiler recognize the end of a function declaration statement.

Conclusion

Given the information above, the statement "Function prototypes are terminated with a semicolon" is True (T).

Key concepts

Function Prototypes

In C++ programming, function prototypes are essential aspects to understand. They serve as a blueprint of a function. When you write a function prototype, you define the function's interface before implementing it.
This is important for the compiler to know what to expect during function calls. Function prototypes consist of three main components:

• Return Type: This defines what type of value the function will return, such as int, float, void, etc.
• Function Name: The identifier used to call the function.
• Parameter Types: These are the data types of the arguments that the function accepts.

Function prototypes do not include the actual code block of the function, just its signature.
A key syntax note to remember is that a function prototype ends with a semicolon, which signals to the compiler to finish reading the declaration.

Function Declarations

Function declarations, often synonymous with function prototypes, are statements that let the compiler know about the function's signature.
They must come before the function's use within the source file.
This declaration acts as a forward-reference tool, allowing functions to be aware of others that are not necessarily defined before their own code blocks. The elements in function declarations mirror those of function prototypes:

• The return type defines the output type of the function.
• The name is how the function is identified and called elsewhere in the code.
• The parameter list details the types of inputs the function expects, but not necessarily names the parameters.

This anticipatory declaration is critical for building robust and maintainable code, especially in modular and large applications. As with prototypes, they end with a semicolon.

C Language

C is a foundational programming language that paved the way for multiple other languages, including C++. It serves as a tool for creating system-based applications close to the hardware. Key features of C include its rich set of built-in operators and functions, allowing for complex functionality while maintaining performance. In C programming:

• Function prototypes and declarations are fundamental, helping encapsulate code correctly and efficiently.
• The strong typing system emphasizes correct usage of data types and function signatures.

Understanding features like function prototypes and declarations in C is crucial for efficient problem-solving and effective communication between different parts of a program. By starting with C, programmers develop a firm grounding in programming logic and practices, useful across various programming domains.