C preprocessor directives – are they messages from the compiler to the linker?\nEvaluate the accuracy of this statement about the build pipeline.

Introduction / Context:
The C build pipeline has multiple distinct phases: preprocessing, compilation, assembly, and linking. This question checks if you can distinguish the responsibilities of each phase, especially what a preprocessor directive actually does.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• The claim: “A preprocessor directive is a message from the compiler to the linker.”
• Typical directives include #include, #define, #if/#endif, and #pragma.

Concept / Approach:
Preprocessor directives are handled by the preprocessor, which runs before the compiler proper. Directives control token substitution, conditional compilation, and file inclusion. They are not commands from the compiler to the linker. The linker operates later, combining object files and libraries into an executable and resolving external symbols.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Identify phase: preprocessor handles “#” lines.Effects: include files, macro expansion, conditional compilation, and occasionally compiler hints via #pragma.Linker role: resolve symbols and build final binaries; it does not read preprocessor directives.

Verification / Alternative check:
Inspect intermediate outputs: run the preprocessor only (e.g., with a compiler flag) to see expanded code; no linking occurs here.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Correct — wrong: directives target the preprocessor, not the linker. Only true for #pragma — even pragmas are compiler hints, not linker messages. True for header inclusion — still a preprocessor action.

Common Pitfalls:
Equating compile errors with link errors; misattributing undefined symbol errors (linker) to preprocessing; assuming directives persist after preprocessing.

Final Answer:
Incorrect