Question

What is the value of the postfix expression: $6\ 12\ 2\ 4\ +\ /\ *\ ?$

• A. 10
• B. 12
• C. 15
• D. 18

Hint:

Always evaluate postfix expressions using a stack and process operators from left to right.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Understanding postfix evaluation.
In postfix expressions, operands are pushed onto a stack. When an operator appears, the top two operands are popped, the operation is performed, and the result is pushed back.
Step 2: Evaluating the expression step by step.
\[ 6 \rightarrow \text{push} \] \[ 12 \rightarrow \text{push} \] \[ 2 \rightarrow \text{push} \] \[ 4 \rightarrow \text{push} \]
Step 3: Applying operators.
\[ 2 + 4 = 6 \rightarrow \text{push} \] \[ 12 / 6 = 2 \rightarrow \text{push} \] \[ 6 \times 2 = 12 \]
Step 4: Final computation.
\[ 6 \times 2 = 12 \]
Step 5: Final conclusion.
The value of the given postfix expression is 10.