C programming on a 16-bit platform — analyze this bit-field width for validity.\n\n#include<stdio.h>\n\nint main()\n{\n struct bits\n {\n int i:40; /* 40 bits requested in a 16-bit environment */\n } bit;\n\n printf("%d", (int)sizeof(bit));\n return 0;\n}\n\nWhat is the correct diagnosis?

Introduction / Context:
Bit-field widths cannot exceed the number of bits available in the underlying type. On a 16-bit platform, the width of int is typically 16 bits. Requesting 40 bits is not representable and must be rejected by the compiler.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Assume int is 16 bits (typical for the stated platform).
• Member declaration uses int i:40.

Concept / Approach:
For a bit-field of type int, the maximum width is the number of value bits that type can store (implementation-defined but generally the bit width of int). If the requested width exceeds that, it is ill-formed or at least a constraint violation for that target.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:
Changing to unsigned int i:15; compiles. Using a wider implementation type (e.g., long) on wider platforms may also work, but not 40 bits on a 16-bit int.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• 2 or 4: These are guesses at sizeof and miss the primary compile-time constraint.
• Invalid member access: Access is not the issue; the declaration is.

Common Pitfalls:
Assuming bit-field widths are portable across platforms; forgetting the underlying type's width limits.

Final Answer:
Error: Bit field too large