Exam-style question
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Which statement correctly describes the difference between unsigned binary and signed binary?.
- A.Unsigned binary represents only non-negative values, whereas signed binary can represent positive and negative values.
- B.Unsigned binary always uses fewer bits than signed binary for the same value.
- C.Signed binary can represent only zero and positive values.
- D.Unsigned binary always has a maximum value of 255.
Model answer
What a good answer should say
- Unsigned binary represents only non-negative values, whereas signed binary can represent positive and negative values.
Explanation
Why this works
Unsigned binary uses its bits to represent non-negative values only. Signed binary includes an interpretation for negative as well as positive values.
The maximum unsigned value depends on the number of bits, so it is not always 255.
Common mistake
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