Macro Processors in Assemblers/Compilers Which tasks must a macro processor perform while handling macro definitions and invocations?

Introduction / Context:Macro processors extend assembly or high-level languages by allowing parameterized text substitution. They improve code reuse and readability without runtime overhead.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Source files may contain macro definitions and macro invocations.
• The macro processor executes at translation time.

Concept / Approach:A macro definition names a template. The macro processor must parse and store definitions, detect invocations, and on each call, expand the template with actual parameters, producing plain source for the subsequent assembler/compiler stage.

Step-by-Step Solution:Identify macro boundaries (e.g., MACRO/ENDM directives).Build a macro name table and definition table.When a call is encountered, bind formal parameters to actuals.Emit expanded text in place of the call for further translation.

Verification / Alternative check:Tools like m4 or assembler macro facilities follow this pipeline, and listings will show expanded code replacing macro calls.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:Options A, B, and C each cover part of the required pipeline; only “All of the above” is complete.Option E is incorrect because macro processing does involve these steps.

Common Pitfalls:

• Confusing macro expansion (compile-time) with function calls (run-time).
• Mishandling nested macros or recursive expansions leading to infinite loops.
• Incorrect argument substitution causing subtle bugs in generated code.

Final Answer:All of the above.