Which of the given array element will return the top-of-the-stack-element for a stack of size N elements(capacity of stack > N)?OptionsS[N-1]S[N]S[N+1]S[N-2]

Break Down the Problem

1. A stack operates on the Last In First Out (LIFO) principle.
2. The top element of the stack is the most recently added element.
3. Given that the stack size is N, the valid index ranges for accessing its elements must be considered.

Relevant Concepts

• In an array representation of a stack:
  • The last element in the stack will be at index $N-1$.
  • The element at index $N$ or higher does not exist within the bounds of the stack if it contains N elements.

Analysis and Detail

1. Valid Indices:
   • For a stack containing N elements, the indices range from 0 to $N-1$.
2. Top of the Stack:
   • The top element (the most recent addition) is at index $N-1$.

Verify and Summarize

• Looking at the options:
  1. $S[N-1]$ corresponds to the top of the stack.
  2. $S[N]$ is out of bounds (inaccessible).
  3. $S[N+1]$ is out of bounds (inaccessible).
  4. $S[N-2]$ is the second last element, not the top.

Final Answer

The element $S[N-1]$ will return the top-of-the-stack element.