Mastering Java: The Ultimate Quiz for 'Thinking in Java'

Why must each philosopher's right and left chopsticks be acquired atomically?

1. To speed up eating

2. To prevent deadlocks

3. To ensure data consistency

4. To improve synchronization

The correct answer is: To prevent deadlocks

It is important for each philosopher's right and left chopsticks to be acquired atomically in order to prevent deadlocks. This means that both chopsticks should be picked up at the same time to ensure equal access. If one philosopher takes their left chopstick and another takes their right chopstick, a deadlock may occur as neither can eat until they get their other chopstick from the other person. Furthermore, this method allows for a fair distribution of resources and prevents one philosopher from dominating the mealtime. The other options are incorrect as they do not directly address the issue of avoiding deadlocks while also promoting an equal distribution of resources.