C#.NET string interning and object references: consider the code String s1, s2; s1 = 'Hi'; s2 = 'Hi'; Which statements about object creation and references are true?

Introduction / Context:
This item tests understanding of string interning and reference behavior in C#.NET. String literals are interned, which can cause multiple variables initialized with the same literal to point to the same object instance.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Two string variables s1 and s2.
• Both assigned the same literal 'Hi'.
• Statements to evaluate include whether objects are created with or without new, and whether references point to the same instance.

Concept / Approach:
In .NET, string literals are interned. Assigning the same literal to two variables does not create two different heap objects; both references point to the interned single instance. Creating strings without new is perfectly legal through literals.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:
Use Object.ReferenceEquals(s1, s2) → returns true. Using new string('H',1) etc. would bypass interning unless explicitly interned.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Any option including 1 or 4 is incorrect because they contradict interning and literal semantics.

Common Pitfalls:
Confusing content equality with reference equality; assuming every assignment creates a new object on the heap.

Final Answer:
2, 3, 5