Exam-style question
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Compare fixed-point and floating-point representations in terms of range, precision and speed of calculation. Include one advantage and one disadvantage of each representation.
Model answer
What a good answer should say
- Fixed-point representation has a fixed position for the binary point.
- Its range is limited by how the available bits are divided between the whole-number and fractional parts.
- More bits allocated to the fractional part can give greater precision for fractional values, but this leaves fewer bits for the whole-number part.
- Fixed-point calculations can be faster because the binary-point position does not need to be adjusted.
Explanation
Why this works
A strong answer compares all three required factors rather than describing only one representation. It should recognise the trade-off: fixed point offers a fixed, predictable format and may be faster, whereas floating point offers a wider range but may have variable precision and slower calculations.
Common mistake
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