Which of the following derivations does a top- down parser use while p...
Top down parser uses left to right, left most derivation.
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Which of the following derivations does a top- down parser use while p...
Understanding Top-Down Parsing
Top-down parsing is a strategy used in syntax analysis where the parser begins with the start symbol and works its way down to the input string.
Left Most Derivation
- A left most derivation is a sequence of production rule applications that always replaces the leftmost non-terminal at each step.
- For example, if we have a grammar and an input string, the parser will replace the leftmost non-terminal in the current string until it derives the input string.
Why Option A is Correct
- Top-down parsers, such as Recursive Descent and LL parsers, inherently follow the leftmost derivation.
- They make decisions based on the current non-terminal and the next input symbol, continuously replacing the leftmost non-terminal until the input is fully parsed.
- This approach allows top-down parsers to predict which production to use based on the current state of the input.
Comparison with Other Options
- Left most derivation traced out in reverse (Option B): This option suggests a backward approach, which is not how top-down parsers operate.
- Right most derivation (Option C): Right most derivation focuses on replacing the rightmost non-terminal, which is characteristic of bottom-up parsers.
- Right most derivation traced out in reverse (Option D): Similar to option C, but in reverse, which again does not align with the principles of top-down parsing.
Conclusion
In summary, top-down parsers utilize leftmost derivation to construct the parse tree from the top down, making option A the correct choice in this context. Understanding this fundamental aspect is crucial for grasping parsing techniques in compiler design.