Which of the following prefix expressions is obtained on converting the infix expression A * ( B - C )?

Correct option is D

Step-by-Step Conversion:

Infix expression:

A * (B-C)

Step 1: Identify the operators and operands

• B - C is evaluated first (inside parentheses)
• Result is then multiplied by A

Step 2: Convert from infix to prefix (operator before operands)

• B - C → - B C
• A * (B - C) → * A - B C

So, the correct prefix expression is:
*A - BC

Important Key Points:

1. Prefix notation (Polish notation) places the operator before its operands.
2. Brackets in infix expressions help determine operation priority.
3. Conversion to prefix involves recursively processing operators inside out, maintaining precedence.

Knowledge Booster:

• A B C * -: This is in postfix (Reverse Polish Notation) form, not prefix.
• - A * B C: Incorrect operator placement; does not reflect correct grouping.
• * - A B C: Incorrect operand order — A is multiplied, not subtracted.