Compiler backend responsibility: In storage assignment during compilation/assembly, which tasks are performed to prepare memory for a program’s execution?

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: all of the above

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
Storage assignment (or memory layout) is a core phase in compilation/assembly that maps program entities to addresses or offsets. Proper layout ensures correct access at runtime, efficient use of memory, and support for calling conventions and data initialization.



Given Data / Assumptions:

  • We handle variables, temporaries, and literals.
  • Both compile-time and link-time allocation may be involved.
  • Initialization of static data is required before execution begins.


Concept / Approach:

The compiler/assembler allocates storage for global/static data, arranges stack frames for locals and temporaries, and places constants in literal pools or read-only segments. It also emits initialization records so the loader/runtime can set appropriate initial values before main executes.



Step-by-Step Solution:

Assign addresses/offsets for variables according to scope and lifetime.Reserve slots for intermediate results and temporaries in registers or stack.Create literal pools/RO sections and arrange for initialization data.Therefore, all listed tasks fall under storage assignment responsibilities.


Verification / Alternative check:

Standard compiler architecture references list symbol table management, stack frame layout, and data segment/literal pool generation as part of storage assignment and code generation.



Why Other Options Are Wrong:

  • Each single option is only a subset; real systems require all three.
  • None of the above is false because these are indeed performed.


Common Pitfalls:

Overlooking alignment and padding; confusing static initialization (loader) with dynamic initialization (constructor code); ignoring register allocation’s impact on temporary storage.


Final Answer:

all of the above

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