Storage by reference, unquote( ) cmd

[compsystems]

code:

purge(c); a:=c; unquote(a):=3; [enter] returns
(a)->3 What does this mean? I expected the value of a = 3 and c = 3

[DrD]

Since the unquote(), XCAS command, is not, currently, part of the Prime's command set, your steps create a general purpose variable named unquote(a), and then set it's contents to 3.

[To see for yourself]
After entering your steps at the command line, type: unquote(a) ==> 3

Assuming that CAS equals XCAS, will reveal that, often, it doesn't meet your expected result!

[To fix the CAS vs. XCAS conundrum]
1. Consider moving; (to the XCAS forum), where the value of your expertise can be directly demonstrated.
2. If you don't see an XCAS command in the Prime Toolbox, expect trouble.