Introduction / Context:
Computer memory and data movement are measured in bits and bytes. Knowing how many bits form a byte is fundamental for understanding storage sizes, data alignment, and instruction encoding. Here we translate an 8-bit sequence into the number of bytes it represents.
Given Data / Assumptions:
- Binary sequence: 1100 0101 (8 bits shown, grouped 4+4 for readability).
- Definition: 1 byte = 8 bits.
- No parity, start/stop, or framing bits are implied.
Concept / Approach:
- Count the number of bits in the sequence.
- Divide by 8 to obtain the number of bytes.
Step-by-Step Solution:
Count bits: '1100 0101' contains 8 bits.Apply definition: 8 bits = 1 byte.Therefore, the sequence occupies exactly 1 byte.
Verification / Alternative check:
Any 8-bit pattern—from 0000 0000 to 1111 1111—constitutes 1 byte; 1100 0101 is one such pattern.
Why Other Options Are Wrong:
- 2, 4, 8 bytes: Would correspond to 16, 32, 64 bits respectively, which are not shown.
- None of the above: Incorrect because 1 is exactly correct.
Common Pitfalls:
- Confusing nibble (4 bits) with byte (8 bits).
- Assuming whitespace in grouped bits adds extra bits—spacing is for readability only.
Final Answer:
1
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