Chapter 10, Problem 1MC

A file that data is written to is known as a(n)

1. a. input file
2. b. output file
3. c. sequential access file
4. d. binary file

Program Description Answer

The file to which the data is written is known as an output file.

Hence the correct answer is option “B”.

Explanation of Solution

Output file:

• A file where the data are written is called as “output file”. The output file is created on the disk and allows the program to write a data on it.
• The “output file” must be accessed using the file name and must be closed after the usage of the file.
  • If the file is not closed properly, it can cause a loss of data. Because, the data that is written to a file is stored in a buffer first.
  • After closing a file, the buffer saves the contents into the disk.

Example for output file:

The following program is used to open an output file, writes a name to it and then closes it.

#Function main

def main():

#Open an outfile for writing

    outfile=open('my_name.txt','w')

#Write the name into file

    outfile.write("Tom cruise")

#Close the file

    outfile.close()

#Display statement

print('Data written to my_name.txt')

#Call the main function

main()<SAMPLE-OUTPUT>

Explanation:

The above program is used to open an output file named “my_name.txt”, and writes a name to it and then closes it:

• In “main()” function, open a file “my_name.txt” and write a name "Tom cruise" to the file using “write()” method.
• Close the file using “close()” method. Display the intimation message on the screen.
• Call the “main()” function.

Explanation for the incorrect options:

Input file:

A file from which the data is read is called as input file. When a program gets input from the file, then it is called as input file.

Hence, the option “A” is wrong.

Sequential access file:

In sequential access method, the contents of the file are accessed from the beginning to the end.

Hence, the option “C” is wrong.

Binary file:

Binary file holds data that are not represented in the form of text. The executable programs are stored in the type of binary file. Due to this, the contents present in the binary file cannot be viewed with normal text editors.

Hence, the option “D” is wrong.

Sample Output

Data written to my_name.txt

Screenshot of “my_name.txt” file