Java boolean assignments in if/else chain — what character is printed?\n\nboolean bool = true;\nif (bool = false) { // Line 2: assignment, not comparison\n System.out.println("a");\n}\nelse if (bool) {\n System.out.println("b");\n}\nelse if (!bool) {\n System.out.println("c"); // Line 12\n}\nelse {\n System.out.println("d");\n}\n\nChoose the exact output.

Introduction / Context:
This classic trap distinguishes assignment (=) from comparison (==) inside an if condition. The code assigns false to the variable and then evaluates the new value in the control flow.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Initial: bool is true.
• The first if uses assignment: bool = false.
• Subsequent else-if conditions depend on the updated value of bool.

Concept / Approach:
In Java, an assignment expression has the value of the assigned result. Thus if (bool = false) assigns false and then tests false, so the first branch does not execute. The chain continues with the updated bool value.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:
Change the first line to if (bool == false) (comparison) and the flow changes. Or write if (!bool) for clarity.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• "a" would require the first condition to be true; it is forced false by assignment.
• "b" requires bool to be true; it is explicitly set to false.
• "d" is never reached because the preceding else-if evaluates to true.

Common Pitfalls:
Using assignment in conditions unintentionally; always enable compiler warnings or code style checks to prevent this.

Final Answer:
c