Exam-style question
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A calculation is performed using a fixed-size binary representation. Explain why it is necessary to compare the result with the representable range, and state what condition must be present for overflow or underflow to occur.
Model answer
What a good answer should say
- The fixed number of bits determines a limited range of values that can be represented.
- The result must therefore be compared with the minimum and maximum values of that range.
- Overflow occurs if the result is greater than the maximum representable value.
- Underflow occurs if the result is less than the minimum representable value.
Explanation
Why this works
The answer should connect the fixed-size representation to its limits, distinguish results above and below those limits, and recognise that a result within the range does not cause either condition.
Common mistake
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