Category: Programming Challenges

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Programming Challenge: Array and Loop Manipulation (Intermediate)

This image is an illustration featuring a stylized scene with a central magnifying glass focused on a number 5 on a cube. The magnifying glass has a classic design with a blue tinted glass and a beige handle. Surrounding the magnifying glass are multiple cubes with numbers and mathematical symbols on their faces. The cubes have different numerical values such as 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, and 8, with mathematical operations next to them like "+4," "-2," "x4," and "?". Arrows around the cubes suggest movement or rearrangement, implying a dynamic or interactive aspect to the puzzle-like setting. The overall color scheme is warm with a monochromatic tan background that complements the blue and white of the cubes. The image could be interpreted as a metaphor for problem-solving, analysis, or mathematics, as it appears to represent a numerical puzzle or game being examined or solved.

Challenge Description:

You are provided with a list of n non-negative integers. Your task is to write a program that performs the following operations:

  1. Query Mode:
    • The program should first ask the user if they want to perform queries or updates: Enter 'Q' for query and 'U' for update.
    • If the user enters Q, prompt them to enter a range [l, r] (1-based index) and then output the sum of elements from index l to r inclusive.
  2. Update Mode:
    • If the user enters U, prompt them to enter an index i (1-based index) and a value v. Update the element at index i by adding v to it (this is an increment operation, not set).
    • After each update, print the new full array.

The challenge is designed to teach basic array manipulations and looping constructs, with a focus on handling user inputs and performing range queries and updates efficiently.

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