Term
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Definition
| Abstraction reduces and factors out details so that one can focus on a few concepts at a time. |
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Term
| why is abstraction so important in software development? |
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Definition
| It reduces repetition, reimplementation of preexisting code, and hides specifics that don't need to be known which promotes ease of use. |
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Term
What does this method do?
def meth(a,b)
c = a
b.times{c = yield c}
c
end |
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Definition
| copies parameter a as c. then executes a block c, b number of times and each iteration is stored in c. |
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Term
What important Ruby construct does this illustrate?
def meth(a,b)
c = a
b.times{c = yield c}
c
end |
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Definition
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Term
How does the construct of the following support the principle of abstraction and its importance in software development?
def meth(a,b)
c = a
b.times{c = yield c}
c
end |
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Definition
| The block construct allows for loop abstraction where any method can be called with a block as an implicit argument. Inside the method, you can call the block using the yield keyword with a value. The most basic usage of blocks is to let you define your own way for iterating over the items. |
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Term
What is an object in object-oriented programming? (e.g., What is
its nature? What role does it play?) |
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Definition
An object is simply a tangible entity that exhibits some well-defined
behavior. Objects do things, and we ask them to perform what they do by sending
them messages. |
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Term
| Explain meaning and significance: every Ruby statement is an expression |
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Definition
Statement: a message that is stated or declared; a communication (oral or written) setting forth particulars or facts etc
Expression: a combination of values, variables, operators, and functions that are interpreted (evaluated) |
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Term
| Explain meaning and significance: Ruby classes are always open |
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Definition
| You can always add methods to an existing class. This applies to the classes you write as well as the standard, built-in classes. All you have to do is open up a class definition for an existing class, and the new contents you specify will be added to whatever's there. This allows for easier dynamic programming. |
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Term
| Explain meaning and significance: in Ruby, even 17 is an object |
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Definition
| 17 is an object of the Fixnum class which creates objects as defined by the Fixnum class. This allows the number 17 to have attributes, properties and methods. |
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