C#.NET — Predict output using ref parameters to return square and cube. Program: namespace CuriousTabConsoleApplication { class SampleProgram { static void Main(string[] args) { int a = 5; int s = 0, c = 0; Proc(a, ref s, ref c); Console.WriteLine(s + " " + c); } static void Proc(int x, ref int ss, ref int cc) { ss = x * x; cc = x * x * x; } } }

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: 25 125

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
This example demonstrates using ref parameters to return multiple results from a method. The method Proc computes the square and cube of the input and writes those results back via ref arguments, then Main prints them. Understanding ref is critical to predict the console output.


Given Data / Assumptions:

  • a = 5; s and c are initialized to 0 in Main.
  • Proc receives x = 5 and two ref parameters ss and cc.
  • Console.WriteLine prints s and c separated by a space.


Concept / Approach:
ref causes the callee to operate on the caller’s variables directly. Assignments to ss and cc inside Proc update s and c in Main. The arithmetic is straightforward: square = x * x and cube = x * x * x for x = 5.


Step-by-Step Solution:

Compute ss = 5 * 5 = 25; therefore s becomes 25 in Main. Compute cc = 5 * 5 * 5 = 125; therefore c becomes 125 in Main. Print: "25 125".


Verification / Alternative check:
Change the call to Proc(a, ref c, ref s); and you would see "125 25", confirming ref ties to caller variables positionally.


Why Other Options Are Wrong:

  • A: ignores the ref assignments.
  • B/C: double-same results do not match square vs cube.
  • E: a specific correct output exists.


Common Pitfalls:
Confusing ref with out (both pass by reference but out need not be initialized) or expecting value copies.


Final Answer:
25 125

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