Introduction to Topics

The question from the 69th BPSC Prelims (2023) focuses on Computer Science and Technology, specifically identifying computer programming languages from a list of terms that may cause confusion due to their association with animals or other entities. This topic is part of the General Science syllabus in the BPSC exam, which often includes questions on modern technologies, including computer science, to test candidates’ awareness of technological advancements. The question’s design, with terms like “Cobra,” “Python,” “Squirrel,” and “Java,” requires careful differentiation between programming languages and non-related terms, making it a tricky yet relevant question for aspirants.

Question: Which of the following are computer languages?

1. Cobra
2. Python
3. Squirrel
4. Java

Options:
(A) Only 1 and 2
(B) Only 3 and 4
(C) Only 1, 2, and 3
(D) All of the above

Explanation

This question tests candidates’ ability to identify computer programming languages from a list that includes terms potentially confused with animals or other entities. The BPSC exam often includes such questions to assess knowledge of basic computer science concepts, which are increasingly relevant in competitive exams due to the growing importance of technology.

• Cobra (1):
  • Analysis: Cobra is a lesser-known programming language designed for general-purpose use, emphasizing clean syntax and productivity. It is not as widely used as Python or Java but is indeed a programming language.
  • Conclusion: Cobra is a computer language.
• Python (2):
  • Analysis: Python is a widely used, high-level, general-purpose programming language known for its simplicity and versatility. It is used in web development, data science, automation, and more.
  • Conclusion: Python is a computer language.
• Squirrel (3):
  • Analysis: Squirrel is a lightweight, scripting programming language designed for embedded systems and applications, such as video games. It is less common but recognized in specific programming contexts.
  • Conclusion: Squirrel is a computer language.
• Java (4):
  • Analysis: Java is a robust, object-oriented programming language widely used for enterprise applications, mobile development (e.g., Android), and web servers.
  • Conclusion: Java is a computer language.
• Option Analysis:
  • (A) Only 1 and 2: Incorrect, as it excludes Squirrel and Java, both of which are programming languages.
  • (B) Only 3 and 4: Incorrect, as it excludes Cobra and Python, both programming languages.
  • (C) Only 1, 2, and 3: Incorrect, as it excludes Java, a well-known programming language.
  • (D) All of the above: Correct, as Cobra, Python, Squirrel, and Java are all computer programming languages.
• Key Misconceptions:
  • Candidates might confuse the terms with their non-programming meanings (e.g., Cobra as a snake, Python as a snake, Squirrel as an animal, Java as an island or coffee). The question’s design leverages this ambiguity to test precise knowledge.
  • Cobra and Squirrel are less familiar languages compared to Python and Java, which might lead candidates to assume they are not programming languages.
  • The mention of “tastes of the tongue” in the question is likely a misprint, as it does not relate to the options. Candidates must focus on the computer language context to answer correctly.

Correct Answer

Correct Answer: (D) All of the above

• Reason: All listed options are computer programming languages:
  • Cobra: A general-purpose programming language with clean syntax.
  • Python: A versatile, high-level programming language.
  • Squirrel: A lightweight scripting language for embedded systems.
  • Java: A robust, object-oriented language for enterprise and mobile applications.

5 Probable Questions of Similar Difficulty

1. Question: Which of the following are programming languages?
   • 1. Ruby
   • 2. Viper
   • 3.Falcon
   • 4.Tiger
     Options: (A) Only 1 and 2, (B) Only 1 and 3, (C) Only 1, 2, and 3, (D) All of the above
     Answer: (C) Only 1, 2, and 3
     Explanation: Ruby is a dynamic programming language, Viper is used in Ethereum blockchain, and Falcon is a programming language for high-performance applications. Tiger is not a recognized programming language, often confused with an animal.
2. Question: Which of the following is NOT a computer programming language?
   • A) Go
   • B) Swift
   • C) Eagle
   • D) Kotlin
     Answer: (C) Eagle
     Explanation: Go, Swift, and Kotlin are programming languages (used for general-purpose, iOS, and Android development, respectively). Eagle is not a programming language, likely confused with the bird.
3. Question: Match the following programming languages with their primary use:
   List-I (Language): a. Python, b. Lua, c. R, d. Cobra
   List-II (Use): 1. Data analysis, 2. General-purpose with clean syntax, 3. Game development scripting, 4. Web development
   Answer: a-1, b-3, c-1, d-2
   Explanation: Python and R are used for data analysis, Lua for game scripting, and Cobra for general-purpose programming with clean syntax.
4. Question: Which of the following programming languages is primarily used for Android app development?
   • A) Python
   • B) Java
   • C) Squirrel
   • D) Cobra
     Answer: (B) Java
     Difficulty: Moderate
     Explanation: Java is a primary language for Android development, while Python is versatile, Squirrel is for embedded systems, and Cobra is less common for mobile apps.
5. Question: Which of the following statements about programming languages is/are correct?
   • 1. Python is known for its use in machine learning and data science.
     2. Squirrel is primarily used for enterprise-level applications.
        Options: (A) Only 1, (B) Only 2, (C) Both 1 and 2, (D) None
        Answer: (A) Only 1
        Explanation: Python is widely used in machine learning and data science, but Squirrel is a lightweight scripting language for embedded systems, not enterprise applications.

Key Words Explained in Short

• Cobra: A programming language with clean syntax, designed for productivity, less common but used in general-purpose programming.
• Python: High-level, versatile programming language for web development, data science, and automation, known for simplicity.
• Squirrel: Lightweight scripting language for embedded systems, often used in video games and real-time applications.
• Java: Robust, object-oriented programming language for enterprise, web, and Android app development.
• Programming Language: A formal language used to write instructions for computers to execute tasks.
• Scripting Language: A type of programming language (e.g., Squirrel, Python) for writing scripts to automate tasks or control applications.
• Syntax: The set of rules defining how code is structured in a programming language (e.g., Cobra’s clean syntax).
• Embedded Systems: Specialized computing systems where languages like Squirrel are used for specific, resource-constrained tasks.

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