Java programming — Evaluate bitwise operators step by step: class Bitwise { public static void main(String [] args) { int x = 11 & 9; int y = x ^ 3; System.out.println( y | 12 ); } }

Introduction / Context:
This checks understanding of Java's bitwise AND (&), XOR (^), and OR (|) using small integers, and requires converting between decimal and binary mentally.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Compute x = 11 & 9.
• Then y = x ^ 3.
• Print y | 12.

Concept / Approach:
Use binary forms: AND keeps bits set in both, XOR keeps bits set in exactly one, OR keeps bits set in either.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:
Cross-check by quick calculator or mental recomputation of each bit position.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
They correspond to misapplying XOR or OR, or mixing decimal and binary values incorrectly.

Common Pitfalls:
Confusing XOR with OR, or forgetting leading zeros in alignment when writing binary.

Final Answer:
14