Operating Systems - File Allocation Methods - Contiguous, Linked, Indexed
What is the primary challenge when accessing the 8th block of a file stored using linked allocation?
What is the primary challenge when accessing the 8th block of a file stored using linked allocation?
easy🧾 Trace Q3 of Q15
Step-by-Step Solution
Solution:
Step 1: Understand linked allocation
Each file block contains a pointer to the next block, forming a linked list.Step 2: Accessing the 8th block
To reach the 8th block, the system must start at the first block and follow pointers sequentially through blocks 2 to 7.Final Answer:
Option B -> Option BQuick Check:
Linked allocation requires sequential traversal [OK]
Quick Trick: Linked allocation requires sequential traversal to reach any block [OK]
Common Mistakes:
MISTAKES- Assuming direct access to any block like in indexed allocation
- Thinking the file is stored contiguously
- Believing the system can jump directly to the block without traversal
Trap Explanation:
PITFALL- Option B looks correct because direct indexing is common in other methods but not linked allocation.
Interviewer Note:
CONTEXT- Tests understanding of linked allocation traversal and access time.
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