Statements and expressions are the smallest useful fragments of code in most programming languages. true or false
The correct answer and explanation is:
Correct Answer: True
Statements and expressions are indeed the smallest useful fragments of code in most programming languages. Both are fundamental building blocks in programming, and understanding their roles is essential for writing effective code.
An expression is a combination of variables, values, operators, and function calls that can be evaluated to produce a value. For example, in the expression 3 + 4, the result is 7. Expressions can be simple, like 5, or more complex, like x * (y + 2). Expressions are used where a value is expected, such as in variable assignments, function calls, and return statements.
A statement, on the other hand, is an instruction that performs an action. Statements can include expressions, but they serve a broader purpose in controlling the flow of the program. Examples of statements include if statements, while loops, and assignments like x = 5. A statement might contain one or more expressions but is executed for its side effects rather than its value.
Most programming languages rely on expressions to compute values and on statements to define the logic and control structure of the program. For example, in the Python statement x = 3 + 2, the expression 3 + 2 is evaluated first, and then the result is used in the assignment statement. This combination makes it possible to build increasingly complex behavior by combining simple expressions and statements.
In summary, both expressions and statements are necessary for writing any functional code. Expressions compute values, and statements perform actions. Because they are the smallest units that carry meaning and can be executed in a program, it is accurate to say they are the smallest useful fragments of code in most programming languages. Thus, the statement is true.