Exam-style question
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Which conclusion is consistent with the Halting problem?.
- A.A computer cannot solve any problem involving a program
- B.A computer can always determine whether an arbitrary program will stop
- C.No general computer solution can determine whether every program will eventually stop for particular inputs
- D.A program that does not stop immediately must be faulty
Model answer
What a good answer should say
- No general computer solution can determine whether every program will eventually stop for particular inputs
Explanation
Why this works
The Halting problem shows that there is no general solution that can correctly determine this for every possible program and particular input. This does not mean that no individual cases can be analysed.
Common mistake
No common mistake is linked to this question yet.