In C, evaluate expressions in printf arguments left to right: what prints? #include<stdio.h> int main() { int x = 55; printf("%d, %d, %d ", x <= 55, x = 40, x >= 10); return 0; }

Difficulty: Medium

Correct Answer: 1, 40, 1

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
This question assesses your grasp of relational expressions, assignment expressions as r-values, and the order in which function arguments are evaluated in C. It also clarifies that printf simply prints the values of its evaluated arguments.


Given Data / Assumptions:

  • x starts at 55.
  • Expressions are evaluated as separate arguments before the call prints them.
  • The assignment expression x = 40 yields the value 40.


Concept / Approach:
Each argument is an expression. The first compares the original x with 55; the second assigns a new value to x; the third uses the updated x in another comparison. Many modern compilers evaluate function arguments left to right, and in this typical exam context the intent is precisely that sequence.


Step-by-Step Solution:
Argument 1: x <= 55 → 55 <= 55 → true → prints 1.Argument 2: x = 40 → assignment returns 40 → prints 40; x is now 40.Argument 3: x >= 10 → 40 >= 10 → true → prints 1.Output: 1, 40, 1.


Verification / Alternative check:
Manually break it into temporaries, then printf those temporaries to confirm the same result.


Why Other Options Are Wrong:
(b) and (c) wrongly print the old value of x in the middle. (d) treats the middle as boolean rather than the assignment result. (e) incorrectly sets the first relation.


Common Pitfalls:
Assuming assignments in printf are not evaluated or thinking that printf prints variable names rather than values. Also, confusing the printed integer 1/0 with true/false semantics.


Final Answer:
1, 40, 1

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