Recursively calling main via a helper: trace argc from 1 up to 4 and print each value.\n\n#include <stdio.h>\nvoid fun(int);\n\nint main(int argc)\n{\n printf("%d ", argc);\n fun(argc);\n return 0;\n}\n\nvoid fun(int i)\n{\n if (i != 4)\n main(++i);\n}\n

Difficulty: Medium

Correct Answer: 1 2 3 4

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
This question examines recursion through main and argument passing. Even though calling main recursively is unusual, it is permitted in C as a normal function call. The code prints the current argc each time before recursing until a stopping condition is reached.


Given Data / Assumptions:

  • Assume normal program start with only the program name → initial argc = 1.
  • fun(i) calls main(++i) until i == 4.
  • Each call prints its argc with a trailing space.


Concept / Approach:
The execution is a recursion depth climb from 1 to 4. On each activation of main, the code prints its argc, then either recurses with argc + 1 or stops if argc == 4. No additional output occurs on unwinding.


Step-by-Step Solution:

Start: main(1) prints "1 ".fun(1) calls main(2) → prints "2 ".fun(2) calls main(3) → prints "3 ".fun(3) calls main(4) → prints "4 "; fun(4) does not recurse.


Verification / Alternative check:
Replace fun with a loop printing i from 1 to 4 to confirm expected sequence; both methods output identical values.


Why Other Options Are Wrong:

  • 1 2 3 / 2 3 4 / 1: Each omits at least one printed value or makes the wrong starting point.


Common Pitfalls:
Believing that main cannot be called like a normal function; forgetting the base condition i != 4 and the prefix increment semantics.


Final Answer:
1 2 3 4

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