Exam-style question
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Using add(3,4) as an example, explain what function application is and why the function can be described as taking one argument even though two integer values are shown.
Model answer
What a good answer should say
- Function application is the process of giving particular inputs to a function.
- In add(3,4), the function add is applied to the integer values 3 and 4.
- Although this is commonly described as giving two arguments, the function is regarded as taking one argument: the pair (3,4).
- This pair belongs to integer x integer, and the function produces an integer result.
Explanation
Why this works
The answer must define function application, identify 3 and 4 as the particular integer inputs, and explain that they are treated together as one pair. It should also connect the example to the type integer x integer → integer.
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