1Z0-811 Java Basics and Syntax Practice Question
What is the result of: Integer a = null; int b = (a != null) ? a : 0; System.out.println(b);
⚠ Common exam trap
Oracle often tests the misconception that accessing a null reference in any part of a ternary expression will throw a NullPointerException, but the key is that the unboxing only occurs if the selected branch actually references the null object.
Answer choices
Why each option matters
Answer the question above first, then reveal the full breakdown to understand why each option is right or wrong.
Correct answer & explanation
✓
0
The ternary operator evaluates the condition (a != null). Since a is null, the condition is false, so the expression returns the second operand, which is the int literal 0. This value is assigned to int b, and System.out.println(b) prints 0. No NullPointerException occurs because the ternary operator never attempts to unbox a null reference.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✓
0
Why this is correct
Correct. Ternary returns 0.
- ✗
NullPointerException
Why it's wrong here
Incorrect. a is not unboxed.
- ✗
Compilation error
Why it's wrong here
Incorrect. Code compiles fine.
- ✗
null
Why it's wrong here
Incorrect. b is a primitive int.
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