Why is the file data.txt empty after executing sort data.txt data.txt?
A) Because, if data.txt is empty now, it must have been empty before.
B) Because sort cannot sort text files, only binary files.
C) Because sort detects that both files are the same.
D) Because the file gets truncated before sort is executed.

Question

Why is the file data.txt empty after executing sort data.txt > data.txt?
A) Because, if data.txt is empty now, it must have been empty before.
B) Because sort cannot sort text files, only binary files.
C) Because sort detects that both files are the same.
D) Because the file gets truncated before sort is executed.

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

When using redirection with the same input and output file, the shell truncates the file before executing the command, resulting in an empty file.

Why Is the File Data