An expression evaluator that transforms a mathematical expression from prefix notation (operator preceding operands) to postfix notation (operator following operands) is a fundamental tool in computer science. For instance, the prefix expression “+ 2 3” becomes “2 3 +” in postfix. This transformation simplifies expression evaluation by eliminating the need for parentheses and precedence rules, allowing for straightforward stack-based processing.
This conversion process plays a crucial role in compiler design and interpreter construction. Its efficiency contributes to faster execution of computer programs. Historically, the development of these algorithms stemmed from the need for efficient expression evaluation in early computing systems, laying the groundwork for many modern computational techniques.