In structured exception handling in C++, where are exceptions typically handled in relation to the regular program code?

Introduction / Context:
C++ provides structured exception handling through try, catch and throw. The idea is to keep normal control flow separate from error handling code, which improves readability and maintainability. This question asks where exceptions are handled in relation to the ordinary program logic.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• We are using standard C++ with exception handling enabled.
• Functions may throw exceptions when they encounter errors.
• Code can use try blocks with associated catch handlers.

Concept / Approach:
In structured exception handling, you write normal program logic in a try block or in functions called from that block. When an exception is thrown, the usual sequential flow of statements is interrupted. Control jumps to the nearest matching catch block that can handle the exception type. This means that error handling logic is written in a separate region of code rather than being mixed with every individual statement, which makes both the normal path and the error handling path easier to understand.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Recall that try blocks mark regions of code where exceptions may occur.Step 2: Recognise that catch blocks are placed after the try block and contain the handling logic.Step 3: Together, try and catch blocks form a structure that separates normal code from error handling code.Step 4: Option B describes this arrangement as handling exceptions outside the regular sequential path in dedicated blocks.Step 5: Other options either place exceptions in impossible or meaningless locations, so option B is correct.

Verification / Alternative check:
Consider a code fragment: try { openFile(); readData(); processData(); } catch(const std::exception& ex) { logError(ex); }. The regular flow of opening, reading and processing is kept together. If an error occurs and an exception is thrown, control leaves the try block and moves to the catch block where the error is handled. This confirms that exceptions are handled in dedicated regions outside the main sequential flow.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Option A suggests mixing error handling with every statement, which is closer to manual error checks rather than exception handling. Option C claims that exceptions are only handled inside the operating system, which is not true for C++ application code. Option D and option E place exceptions in comments or restrict them to headers, which has no meaning in real programs.

Common Pitfalls:
Some programmers forget to structure their code with clear try and catch blocks and instead let exceptions propagate without any top level handling, which can terminate the program abruptly. Others catch exceptions too broadly and then ignore them, hiding bugs. Proper exception handling uses well placed try and catch blocks to separate concerns while still ensuring that errors are reported or recovered from appropriately.

Final Answer:
Outside the regular sequential code path, in dedicated try and catch blocks that surround sections of code.