Computer Science Illuminated Chapter 7 Key Terms Quiz

1. What is an abstract step?

A physical step in a process.

An algorithmic step for which some details remain unspecified

A step that is easily understood without any further clarification.

An outlined step in a concrete algorithm.

An abstract step refers to a step in an algorithm where certain details are intentionally left unspecified, allowing for flexibility and customization.

Explanation

An abstract step refers to a step in an algorithm where certain details are intentionally left unspecified, allowing for flexibility and customization.

2. What is abstraction?

A fictional story with a hidden message

1) A mental model that removes complex details
2) A model of a complex system that includes only the details essential to the viewer

A detailed account of a process

A physical representation of an object

Abstraction is the process of simplifying complex details to create a clearer mental model.

Explanation

Abstraction is the process of simplifying complex details to create a clearer mental model.

3. What is an algorithm?

1) A random guess without any reasoning

2) A chaotic set of actions with no specific goal

3) An unsolvable puzzle without a solution

1)Unambiguous instructions for solving a problem or sub-problem in a finite amount of time using a finite amount of data
2) A plan or outline of a solution
3)Logical sequence of steps that solves a problem

Algorithms are systematic approaches to problem-solving that involve clear, logical steps and a definite solution. They are not random, chaotic, or unsolvable.

Explanation

Algorithms are systematic approaches to problem-solving that involve clear, logical steps and a definite solution. They are not random, chaotic, or unsolvable.

4. What is Binary Search?

Sorting a list of numbers in descending order.

Finding the median value in a dataset by halving the data repeatedly.

Randomly selecting an item from a list and checking if it matches the desired value.

Looking for an item in an already sorted list by eliminating large portions of data on each comparison

Binary Search involves efficiently searching for an item in a sorted list by narrowing down the search area in each comparison, leading to a logarithmic time complexity.

Explanation

Binary Search involves efficiently searching for an item in a sorted list by narrowing down the search area in each comparison, leading to a logarithmic time complexity.

5. What is a Concrete Step?

A step that is rigid and inflexible

A step made of concrete material

A step for which the details are fully specified

A step that is difficult to change

A Concrete Step refers to any step in a process or procedure where the details are clearly defined and specified, making it easy to follow and execute.

Explanation

A Concrete Step refers to any step in a process or procedure where the details are clearly defined and specified, making it easy to follow and execute.

6. What is a control structure in programming?

3) A type of data structure used for organizing files on a computer.

2) A form of technology that restricts access to certain parts of a program.

1) A statement used to alter the normally sequential flow of control
2) An instruction that determines the order in which other instructions in a program are executed

1) A physical device used to regulate the temperature of a computer system.

Control structures in programming are statements or instructions that dictate the flow of control within a program, affecting the order in which other instructions are executed. They are essential for determining the logic and decision-making processes within a program.

Explanation

Control structures in programming are statements or instructions that dictate the flow of control within a program, affecting the order in which other instructions are executed. They are essential for determining the logic and decision-making processes within a program.

7. What is data abstraction?

The separation of the logical view of data from its implementation

A process of making data more complex.

A technique used to combine data from multiple sources without any organization.

The direct use of raw data without any manipulation.

Data abstraction involves hiding the complex implementation details and showing only the necessary features of data.

Explanation

Data abstraction involves hiding the complex implementation details and showing only the necessary features of data.

8. What is information hiding?

The act of intentionally sharing sensitive information with unauthorized individuals.

A term used to describe the process of encrypting data to keep it safe from hackers.

A programming technique that involves making information intentionally difficult to access or understand.

The practice of hiding the details of a module with the goal of controlling access to the details of the module

Information hiding is a fundamental concept in software design, where the internal workings of a module are intentionally concealed to prevent unintended access and modification. This practice helps maintain the integrity of the module and increases security by limiting the exposure of sensitive details.

Explanation

Information hiding is a fundamental concept in software design, where the internal workings of a module are intentionally concealed to prevent unintended access and modification. This practice helps maintain the integrity of the module and increases security by limiting the exposure of sensitive details.

9. What is a nested structure in programming?

A structure in which one control structure is embedded within another

A structure that is designed to hold only one type of data.

A structure that consists of multiple arrays.

A structure that is used for object-oriented programming only.

A nested structure in programming refers to a situation where one control structure is placed inside another, allowing for finer control and logic flow. It is commonly used in languages like C, C++, and Python to handle more complex logic.

Explanation

A nested structure in programming refers to a situation where one control structure is placed inside another, allowing for finer control and logic flow. It is commonly used in languages like C, C++, and Python to handle more complex logic.

10. What is meant by Procedural Abstractions?

The separation of the logical view of an action from its implementation

A programming technique that combines data and code into a single unit.

The process of breaking down a complex problem into smaller tasks.

A design approach focused on reusing existing code rather than rewriting it.

Procedural abstractions involve separating the logical view of an action from how it is implemented, allowing for easier maintenance and understanding of code.

Explanation

Procedural abstractions involve separating the logical view of an action from how it is implemented, allowing for easier maintenance and understanding of code.

11. What is recursion?

A programming language feature that allows data to be processed sequentially.

The ability of a sub-program to recall itself

A type of loop that repeats a specific code block until a condition is met.

The act of calling multiple sub-programs simultaneously.

Recursion refers to the concept of a sub-program calling itself within its own code. It is a fundamental programming technique used for solving complex problems and is commonly used in algorithms and data structures.

Explanation

Recursion refers to the concept of a sub-program calling itself within its own code. It is a fundamental programming technique used for solving complex problems and is commonly used in algorithms and data structures.

12. What is a control structure?

3) A hardware component of a computer system

1) An object used for data storage

1) A statement used to alter the normally sequential flow of control
2) An instruction that determines the order in which other instructions in a program are executed

2) A programming language used for designing websites

Control structures in programming are used to alter the flow of control in a program, determining the order in which instructions are executed. They are not related to data storage, web design languages, or hardware components.

Explanation

Control structures in programming are used to alter the flow of control in a program, determining the order in which instructions are executed. They are not related to data storage, web design languages, or hardware components.