Comparing string contents in C#.NET: which of the following are valid ways to determine if two strings s1 and s2 have equal contents? 1) if(s1 = s2) 2) if(s1 == s2) 3) int c; c = s1.CompareTo(s2); 4) if(strcmp(s1, s2)) 5) if (s1 is s2)

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: 2, 3

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
This problem focuses on correct techniques for string equality checks in C#.NET. Understanding operators and methods available in the .NET framework helps avoid logic errors.



Given Data / Assumptions:

  • We have two string references s1 and s2.
  • We want to know whether their contents are equal.


Concept / Approach:
In C#, the == operator is overloaded for string to perform content comparison. CompareTo returns 0 when two strings are equal. C-style strcmp is not a C# function. The is operator checks type compatibility, not content equality. Assignment (=) is not a comparison.



Step-by-Step Solution:

2) if (s1 == s2) → Valid for content equality.3) int c = s1.CompareTo(s2); → Valid basis; equality holds if c == 0.1) if (s1 = s2) → Invalid; assignment, not comparison.4) strcmp → Not part of C#.5) s1 is s2 → Type test, not equality.


Verification / Alternative check:
Using s1.Equals(s2) is another standard approach that returns a boolean, with overloads for culture and case options.



Why Other Options Are Wrong:
They include non-C# functions, type checks, or misuse assignment.



Common Pitfalls:
Forgetting to compare CompareTo’s result to zero, and confusing identity vs. equality.



Final Answer:
2, 3

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