Match Java operators to their meanings: (A) & , (B) ^ , (C) || , (D) && — with (1) Logical AND, (2) Bitwise AND, (3) XOR, (4) Logical OR.

Introduction:
Java differentiates between bitwise and logical operators, and it provides distinct symbols for exclusive OR and short-circuit logical operations. Mapping each operator to its meaning reinforces correct usage in expressions and conditionals.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Operators: & , ^ , || , &&.
• Meanings: logical AND/OR, bitwise AND, XOR.
• Context: Java operator precedence and boolean vs integral contexts.

Concept / Approach:

The single-ampersand & is bitwise AND for integer types (and a non-short-circuit boolean AND). The caret ^ is bitwise XOR (boolean XOR for booleans). The double-vertical-bar || is logical OR with short-circuit evaluation. The double-ampersand && is logical AND with short-circuit evaluation.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:

Code trials show that || and && may skip the right-hand operand when left-hand decides the outcome, while & and ^ always evaluate both sides for booleans and operate bitwise on integers.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

Swapping logical and bitwise semantics leads to subtle bugs, particularly from assuming & is short-circuiting.

Common Pitfalls:

Using & instead of && in conditionals (causes unintended evaluation); misunderstanding ^ as exponentiation (it is XOR in Java).

Final Answer:

A-2, B-3, C-4, D-1