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Java Program - Smallest of Three Numbers

Concept Explanation

What is it?

This program compares three numerical values provided by the user and determines which one is the lowest.

Real-world example

Imagine you have three prices for the same product from different stores. This program helps you find the cheapest option.

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Algorithm

1. Start
2. Input three numbers: a, b, and c.
3. Check if a is smaller than both b and c.
4. Check if b is smaller than both a and c.
5. Otherwise, c is the smallest.
6. Display the smallest number.
7. End

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Implementations

Java (JDK 17)

import java.util.Scanner;

public class SmallestNumber {
    public static void main(String[] args) {
        Scanner sc = new Scanner(System.in);

        System.out.println("Enter three numbers:");
        int a = sc.nextInt();
        int b = sc.nextInt();
        int c = sc.nextInt();

        int smallest;

        if (a <= b && a <= c) {
            smallest = a;
        } else if (b <= a && b <= c) {
            smallest = b;
        } else {
            smallest = c;
        }

        System.out.println("The smallest number is: " + smallest);
        sc.close();
    }
}

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Explanation

• Java
  • Logical AND (&&): Used to combine two conditions. Both must be true for the whole expression to be true.
  • Comparison Operators (<=): Handles cases where numbers might be equal.

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Complexity Analysis

• Time Complexity: O(1)
• Space Complexity: O(1)

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Related Concepts

• Number Checker
• Conditional Statements

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"Logic will get you from A to B. Imagination will take you everywhere." - Albert Einstein