17.4.1. Save Program Counter on Function Call

Try these first

1. 1.

   What does the Program Counter (PC) do?

   Hint

   Think about what the computer needs to know to keep executing.

2. 2.

   Why is it important to save the PC during a function call?

   Hint

   Think about how jumping around changes the control flow.

3. 3.

   What does the PC represent in a computer's architecture?

   • A. Memory location of the current instruction
   • B. Address of the next instruction
   • C. Data being processed

   Hint

   Think about what keeps track of what comes next in execution.

4. 4.

   True or False: The stack is used to temporarily save the Program Counter during function calls.

   • True
   • False

   Hint

   Recall how functions can jump around locations.

5. 5.

   Explain what happens in memory when a function is called, detailing every step from saving the PC to executing the function.

   Hint

   Break down the process stepwise, including stack operations.

6. 6.

   Create a flowchart that represents the steps taken from making a function call to returning from that function, indicating how the stack operates.

   Hint

   Visualize each important action and its sequence.