Since microprocessor CPUs cannot execute human-readable mnemonics directly, into what form must these assembly mnemonics be translated before execution?

Introduction / Context:
Processors read and execute sequences of bits, not textual mnemonics. Assemblers and toolchains therefore convert symbolic instructions into the exact binary encodings defined by the instruction set architecture (ISA).

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Assembler input: MOV A,B or similar mnemonics.
• CPU input requirement: binary op-codes and operands.
• Hexadecimal is a human-friendly representation of binary, not a separate executable form.

Concept / Approach:
The ISA specifies bit fields for operation, addressing mode, and operands. The assembler encodes these into binary. Hex is often used as a compact notation for binary but the hardware ultimately consumes binary voltage levels.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:
Disassemblers convert binary back to mnemonics; this reversibility demonstrates the binary-to-text mapping.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• A: Hex is just a numbering system for displaying binary; the CPU still operates on binary.
• C: Assembly language is the mnemonic source, not the executable form.
• D: Not all choices are correct; only binary is fundamental to execution.

Common Pitfalls:
Confusing “hex file” formats (e.g., Intel HEX) with the actual in-memory binary bytes; hex files are transport representations.

Final Answer:
binary machine code