12. An algorithm to find the average of the values in an array uses the steps shown. Which two steps of the algorithm should be switched to result in success?
Answer: C
Steps 1 and 2 should be switched to ensure the algorithm successfully finds the average.
Switching steps 1 and 2 allows the algorithm to first initialize the total sum before beginning to iterate through the array to add the values, which is essential for accurately calculating the average.
A) 1 and 4
Switching steps 1 and 4 would not address the fundamental issue of initializing the total sum before iteration. The algorithm would still fail to compute the average correctly since it would attempt to divide before summing the values.
B) 1 and 5
Changing steps 1 and 5 is also ineffective, as step 5 involves calculating the average after the total has already been summed. This does not resolve the issue of starting the algorithm without having initialized the total sum properly.
C) 1 and 2
By switching steps 1 and 2, the algorithm first initializes the total sum, allowing it to correctly accumulate the values from the array. This change is crucial since the average calculation depends on having a correctly computed total.
D) 2 and 4
Switching steps 2 and 4 does not correct the algorithm's flow. Step 2 involves the summation process, while step 4 is where the average is calculated. This rearrangement does not address the need to initialize the total sum before adding values.
Conclusion
Switching steps 1 and 2 is the only combination that enables the algorithm to function correctly, as it ensures that the total is initialized before any values are added. All other options fail to address the core requirement of summing the values correctly prior to calculating the average.