In C programming (assuming unsigned int is 2 bytes = 16 bits), what will this program print in hexadecimal? #include int main() { unsigned int a = 0xffff; // 16-bit all 1s ~a; // bitwise NOT result is not stored back printf("%x ", a); return 0; } Choose the exact output produced by printf.

Introduction / Context:This question checks understanding of the bitwise NOT operator, expression side effects, and how assignment affects variables in C. It also relies on the assumption that unsigned int is 2 bytes (16 bits), so 0xffff represents all 1s in 16 bits.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• unsigned int is 16 bits.
• a is initialized to 0xffff.
• The expression ~a is evaluated but its result is not assigned back to a.
• printf with %x prints a in lowercase hexadecimal without leading 0x.

Concept / Approach:The operator ~ computes the bitwise complement of its operand, but unless the result is stored (e.g., a = ~a), the original variable is unchanged. Therefore the printed value is simply the original a.

Step-by-Step Solution:Start: a = 0xffff.Compute ~a (result would be 0x0000 for 16-bit), but do not assign.a remains 0xffff.printf("%x", a) prints ffff.

Verification / Alternative check:If the code were a = ~a; then a would become 0x0000 and the output would be 0000. Since there is no assignment, the output stays ffff.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:0000 / 00ff / ddfd: These assume the complement was stored or confuse the value. None applies here.None of the above: Incorrect because ffff is correct.

Common Pitfalls:Assuming operators modify variables automatically; forgetting that expressions without assignment do not change stored values.

Final Answer:ffff