APCSP Algorithms and Programming 3

Question 1

A function receives a list of numbers and returns their average. If the list is empty, the function crashes. What is this an example of?

Accepted Answer

Failing to handle an edge case

Answer

An empty list is an edge case — a boundary condition the programmer failed to anticipate and handle gracefully.

Question 2

Which of the following correctly describes the difference between a parameter and an argument?

Accepted Answer

A parameter is a variable in the procedure definition; an argument is the value passed when calling it

Answer

Parameters are placeholder variables defined in the procedure header; arguments are the actual values supplied when the procedure is called.

Question 3

What does it mean for an algorithm to run in polynomial time?

Accepted Answer

The number of steps grows as a polynomial function of the input size

Answer

Polynomial time means the number of operations is bounded by a polynomial expression (like n, n², n³) in terms of the input size n.

Question 4

A robot moves forward, turns right, and repeats this sequence 4 times. What shape does its path form?

Accepted Answer

Square

Answer

Repeating 'move forward, turn right 90°' four times traces a square path.

Question 5

Which of the following is the best reason to use a library or API in a program?

Accepted Answer

To reuse existing, tested code and avoid reimplementing common functionality

Answer

Libraries and APIs provide reusable, pre-tested functionality so programmers don't need to rewrite common operations from scratch.

(APCSP) AP Computer Science Principles Practice Test