Quick Answer
The correct answer is a runtime exception, specifically an ArithmeticException. This occurs because Java enforces strict integer arithmetic rules: when an integer division by zero is attempted with operands like int / int, the language cannot represent the result as a finite integer, so it throws an exception at runtime rather than producing a value like infinity or zero. On the Oracle Java Foundations 1Z0-811 exam, this concept tests your understanding of Java’s type-specific behavior with division—a common trap is assuming integer division by zero behaves like floating-point division, which yields Infinity or NaN instead. Remember that integer division by zero always triggers an ArithmeticException, while floating-point division by zero does not. A quick memory tip: think of integers as “strict”—they refuse to divide by zero and throw an exception, whereas floats are “forgiving” and return special values.
This 1Z0-811 practice question tests your understanding of primitives, strings and operators. Read the scenario carefully and evaluate each option against the stated constraints before committing to an answer. After answering, compare your reasoning against the explanation and wrong-answer breakdown below. Once you have made your selection, read the full explanation to reinforce the concept and understand why each distractor is designed to mislead on exam day.
int x = 5; int y = 0; int z = x / y; System.out.println(z);
Refer to the exhibit. What is the result?
int x = 5; int y = 0; int z = x / y; System.out.println(z);
Compilation error
Why wrong: Code compiles; division by zero is runtime error.
0
Why wrong: No value is returned; exception is thrown.
Runtime exception
Correct: ArithmeticException thrown.
Infinity
Why wrong: Infinity occurs only for floating-point division.
Answer choices
Answer the question above first, then reveal the full breakdown to understand why each option is right or wrong.
Correct answer & explanation
Runtime exception
The code attempts to divide an integer by zero, which in Java throws an ArithmeticException at runtime. Since the division is performed with integer operands (int / int), Java does not allow division by zero and raises an exception, not a floating-point infinity or zero. Therefore, the correct answer is C: Runtime exception.
Key principle: Answer the scenario, not the keyword: identify the specific constraint before choosing the most familiar-sounding option.
Answer analysis
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
Compilation error
Why it's wrong here
Code compiles; division by zero is runtime error.
0
Why it's wrong here
No value is returned; exception is thrown.
Runtime exception
Why this is correct
Correct: ArithmeticException thrown.
Related concept
Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer.
Infinity
Why it's wrong here
Infinity occurs only for floating-point division.
Common exam traps
Oracle often tests the difference between integer and floating-point division by zero, trapping candidates who assume all division by zero yields Infinity or a compile error, when in fact integer division throws a runtime exception.
Detailed technical explanation
In Java, integer division by zero throws an ArithmeticException because the JVM specification (JVMS §3.3) defines integer division as throwing an exception for zero divisor. In contrast, floating-point division by zero follows IEEE 754 and yields Infinity or NaN. This distinction is critical when mixing types in arithmetic expressions, as implicit type promotion can change behavior.
Key takeaway
Answer the scenario, not the keyword: identify the specific constraint before choosing the most familiar-sounding option.
Real-world example
A practitioner preparing for the 1Z0-811 exam encounters this exact type of scenario on the job. The correct answer here is not the most general option — it is the best answer for the specific constraint described. Answer the scenario, not the keyword: identify the specific constraint before choosing the most familiar-sounding option. Real exam questions reward reading the full scenario before eliminating options, because the constraint defines which answer fits.
What to study next
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FAQ
Primitives, Strings and Operators — This question tests Primitives, Strings and Operators — Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer..
The correct answer is: Runtime exception — The code attempts to divide an integer by zero, which in Java throws an ArithmeticException at runtime. Since the division is performed with integer operands (int / int), Java does not allow division by zero and raises an exception, not a floating-point infinity or zero. Therefore, the correct answer is C: Runtime exception.
Identify which exam domain this question belongs to, review the core concept, then practise similar questions from the same domain.
Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer.
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Last reviewed: Jun 30, 2026
This 1Z0-811 practice question is part of Courseiva's free Oracle certification practice question bank. Courseiva provides original exam-style practice questions with explanations, topic-based practice, mock exams, readiness tracking, and study analytics to help learners prepare for the 1Z0-811 exam.
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