[Solved] Trace the sequence of steps when reading a file stored using linked allocation. What happens internally when accessing the 5th block of the file? | Operating Systems

Operating Systems - File Allocation Methods - Contiguous, Linked, Indexed

Trace the sequence of steps when reading a file stored using linked allocation. What happens internally when accessing the 5th block of the file?

AThe system reads all blocks in parallel and picks the 5th block from memory

BThe system calculates the 5th block's address directly using the starting block and block size

CThe system uses an index block to directly access the 5th block without traversing intermediate blocks

DThe system reads the directory entry, then follows the pointer from the 1st block to the 5th block sequentially through intermediate blocks

Step-by-Step Solution

Step 1: Recall linked allocation structure
Each file block contains a pointer to the next block; no direct indexing.
Step 2: Accessing the 5th block
Requires starting at the first block and following pointers through blocks 2, 3, 4 sequentially.
Step 3: Analyze the system reads the directory entry, then follows the pointer from the 1st block to the 5th block sequentially through intermediate blocks
Correctly describes sequential pointer traversal from the first to the 5th block.
Step 4: Analyze the system calculates the 5th block's address directly using the starting block and block size
Direct calculation is only possible in contiguous allocation, not linked.
Step 5: Analyze the system uses an index block to directly access the 5th block without traversing intermediate blocks
Index blocks are used in indexed allocation, not linked allocation.
Step 6: Analyze the system reads all blocks in parallel and picks the 5th block from memory
Parallel reading of blocks is not feasible due to pointer-based chaining.
Final Answer:
Option D -> Option D
Quick Check:
Linked allocation -> sequential pointer traversal to reach desired block.

Quick Trick: Linked allocation requires pointer chasing through blocks [OK]

Common Mistakes:

MISTAKES

Trap Explanation:

PITFALL

Options B and C are tempting because they describe direct access methods, but linked allocation requires sequential traversal.

Interviewer Note:

CONTEXT

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Trace the sequence of steps when reading a file stored using linked allocation. What happens internally when accessing the 5th block of the file?