If the list in the accompanying figure were to be searched using a sequential search on an ordered list, how many key comparisons would be made to find the number 44?
A) 1
B) 3
C) 5
D) 6

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Sequential search on an ordered list starts from the beginning of the list and compares the search key with each element until the search key is found or the end of the list is reached. 
For finding 44 in the given list, the search will proceed as follows:

1. Compare 44 with 21, 44>21, so move to the next element. 
2. Compare 44 with 25, 44>25, so move to the next element. 
3. Compare 44 with 30, 44>30, so move to the next element. 
4. Compare 44 with 32, 44>32, so move to the next element. 
5. Compare 44 with 35, 44>35, so move to the next element. 
6. Compare 44 with 40, 44>40, so move to the next element. 
7. Compare 44 with 42, 44>42, so move to the next element. 
8. Compare 44 with 44, found the key, and stop the search.

So a total of 5 key comparisons are made to find the number 44.

If the List in the Accompanying Figure Were to Be