Exam-style question
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A fixed-point format allocates many bits to the fractional part rather than the whole-number part. Which consequence is most likely?.
- A.It can represent fractional values more precisely but has a smaller range of whole-number values
- B.It represents a wider range of whole-number values and has greater fractional precision
- C.It changes automatically into floating-point representation
- D.It makes all calculations faster regardless of the processor
Model answer
What a good answer should say
- It can represent fractional values more precisely but has a smaller range of whole-number values
Explanation
Why this works
With a fixed number of bits, allocating more bits to the fractional part leaves fewer bits for the whole-number part. This can improve fractional precision while reducing the range of whole-number values that can be represented.
Common mistake
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